The Wellington Phoenix have made a statement of intent ahead of the A-League mid-season transfer window, securing the signature of experienced All Whites defender Bill Tuiloma through to the end of the 2027-28 season.
The signing marks a long-awaited homecoming for Tuiloma, 30, who returns to New Zealand after more than a decade overseas.
Since joining French giant Olympique de Marseille as an 18-year-old in 2013, Tuiloma has gone on to play more than 200 professional matches across France and the United States, while establishing himself as a regular figure in the All Whites setup with 47 international caps.
Phoenix head coach Giancarlo Italiano said Tuiloma’s experience and skill set made him an ideal fit for the club’s defensive system, particularly in a back three.
“Bill will bring quality and experience to our backline,” Italiano said. “His ability with the ball is one of his biggest assets. He’ll add to the way we build up, which is very important.”
Italiano said Tuiloma’s motivation to push for international selection was another key factor in the move.
“Bill wants to be part of the All Whites squad for this year’s FIFA World Cup so he’s very motivated to be here and play a run of games,” he said. “He also has international experience and is a really good age as well. It’s great to have him in Wellington.”
Tuiloma arrived in the capital on Sunday and began training with his new Phoenix team-mates on Tuesday. He said he was grateful for the opportunity to return home and contribute to the club’s push for silverware.
“I’m excited to be in Wellington and I’m grateful for the opportunity the Phoenix have given me,” Tuiloma said. “I’m ready to play, win games and help the team as much as I can on and off the pitch.”
The defender said playing regularly in front of his family would be a special change after spending most of his career abroad.
“Outside of a handful of games for the All Whites I haven’t played in front of my family in New Zealand,” he said. “It’s special to be able to come home and be able to play in front of not only a big crowd of Phoenix fans, but my family as well.”
Tuiloma is also reuniting with fellow defenders Tim Payne and Phoenix captain Alex Rufer, whom he played alongside at the Asia Pacific Football Academy in Christchurch earlier in his career. He said their enthusiasm helped sell him on the move.
“When the interest from the Phoenix came about, I quietly talked to both of them about what Wellington’s like,” he said.
“They were really on to me about wanting me to sign with the Phoenix.”
Tuiloma will have to wait until the A-League’s mid-season registration window opens on January 14 before he can make his Phoenix debut. He will wear the No 28 shirt, becoming just the third player in the club’s history to do so.
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