Wellington Phoenix are excited to announce the signing of 29-year old defensive midfielder, Armando Sosa Peña, after completing his medical earlier today.
The Santa Lucia born midfielder has signed on a one-year contract with the Phoenix.
Peña, also known as Mandi, has arrived from Almeria in the Segunda Division, Spain.
He has enjoyed a stellar career at a high level in Spain, turning out for Real Madrid B between 2010 and 2012.
“I felt like something new and I like New Zealand and what I have seen.
“Not only will I be living in a beautiful country but I will be playing in the A-League which I think will be a big challenge given the quality of the players here.”
Mandi believes the Hyundai A-League will be tough this year but having observed the Wellington Phoenix performances so far, Head Coach Mark Rudan’s squad will be tough to breakdown.
“Mark believes in my ability and my style is perfect for how he wants to play.
“I have heard about the positive atmosphere that has been created within the club.”
Head Coach Mark Rudan is happy to have secured another defensive midfielder to re-enforce his squad.
“I watched him when I was in Europe and he will complement our defensive structure in the middle of the park.
“He is another player that will work extremely hard for the team and gives their all on the pitch so he will slot in perfectly.
“He is not only a defensive rock but also possesses leadership qualities having captained teams he’s played for.”
Mandi began his senior career at Vecindario in the Canary Islands before moving on to Villareal B.
He later joined Real Madrid B in 2010 going in to make 47 appearances, scoring two goals during his tenure there.
At a Glance
2007-08 Vecindario
2008-10 Villarreal C
2008 Villarreal B
2010-12 Real Madrid B – Coaches: Alejandro Menéndez, Alberto Toril
2012-15 Sporting Gijón – Coaches: Javier Clemente, Manolo Sánchez Murias, José Ramón Sandoval, Abelardo Fernández
2015-17 Elche – Coaches: Rubén Baraja, Lucas Alcaraz, Alberto Toril
2017-18 Almeria– Coach: Luis Miguel Ramis, Fran Fernández
