World Cup-winning footballer Christian Karembeu says it’s important to encourage the development of young players in the Oceania region with the anticipated launch of a professional league in two years.
Karembeu told NewstalkZB’s Jason Pine the Oceania region has plenty of talent and a pro league will give players the chance to show it.
Karembeu (52) was visiting Auckland to attend an OFC U-15 boys development tournament.
He is a UEFA Assist Football Ambassador and has an affinity with the Oceania region, having been born in New Caledonia.
At 17, he moved to France in search of a professional career and was capped 53 times by France, winning the 1998 FIFA World Cup with the national side. He was also part of the successful French team at Euro 2000.
Listen to the interview
OFC U-15 Boys’ Youth Development Tournament
Dates: April 11 — 17, 2023
Venue: Ngahue Reserve, New Zealand