New Zealand footballer Tim Payne, who became one of the stars of the 2026 World Cup thanks to a viral campaign by an Argentine content creator, is set to continue his career in South America after signing for Paraguayan football team Olimpia.
Originally reported by the British outlet Sky Sports Football, the club hinted at a confirmation on Monday by publishing emojis of a flexed biceps and a New Zealand flag on their official X account. So far, there’s been no further details about the transfer.
Payne, 32, has played for the Wellington Phoenix in New Zealand since 2019, which competes in the Australian A-League. Throughout his career, he’s also played for Auckland City, Waitakere United, and Eastern Suburbs in New Zealand, as well as Blackburn Rovers in England.
Before being linked to Olimpia, Payne was also linked to a deal to Argentine club Deportivo Riestra, which is known for publicity-driven moves. In 2025, they were fined AR$20 million (just over US$17,000 at the MEP rate at the time) after including videogame streamer Iván Buhajeruk, better known as Spreen, as a player in a professional game, although he only played 59 seconds.
Payne became a sensation after young Argentine content creator Valen Scarsini (@elscarso) sent his followers on a mission to follow “the least-known player” called up for the World Cup.
