Auckland FC sign Marley Leuluai of rugby league family on scholarship deal

Defensive midfielder Marley Leuluai has signed to A-League side Auckland FC on a scholarship deal after a successful trial with the club.

The 19-year-old has spent much of his life in England, coming through the Manchester City academy, before signing his first professional deal with Burnley in 2023 and playing for their u21s and reserve sides.

Leuluai spent the last few months on trial at the Auckland club, impressing and earning minutes off the bench against Tottenham Hotspur in the club's first preseason match, as well as against East Coast Bays.

"I'm buzzing to get started," Leuluai, who captained New Zealand at the 2023 FIFA U17 World Cup, said.

"Playing against Spurs was a dream come true, and I'm excited to create more memorable moments with the club."

Auckland FC signing Marley Leuluai with his dad Kylie .