Max Mata, a 23-year-old New Zealand international and Shrewsbury Town striker, has made a season-long loan move to Auckland. After struggling to make an impact at Shrewsbury, where he scored just once in 26 appearances, Mata is looking forward to finding success back on loan at his hometown club.
Mata initially signed a three-year deal with Shrewsbury last August after an impressive stint at League of Ireland side Sligo Rovers, where he scored 11 goals in 23 games. However, despite high expectations, Mata struggled to make an impact at Shrewsbury, with the team having the lowest goal tally in the EFL last season, scoring only 35 goals in 46 games.
Mata’s career has taken him to various countries, including Switzerland, Estonia, and the USA, before settling in Ireland in 2022. With nine full caps for New Zealand, Mata brings international experience to Auckland as they aim to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season. Despite uncertainties surrounding his future at Shrewsbury, Mata’s loan move to Auckland provides him with a fresh start and an opportunity to showcase his skills in familiar surroundings.
