New Caledonia-born FIFA World Cup Winner Impressed By OFC U-15 Boys Development Tournament In Auckland
New Caledonia-born FIFA World Cup winner Christian Karembeu has praised the OFC U-15 Boys Development Tournament held in Auckland, New Zealand, over the past week, describing it as a privilege and an essential pathway for young footballers across …
Karembeu, who lifted the FIFA World Cup with France in 1998, is attending the tournament as part of the UEFA Together initiative in partnership with OFC. He's taken time to speak with the players, coaches and staff, offering inspiration and insight drawn from his remarkable career.
'These boys are very lucky,' he said. 'To have a tournament like this at U-15 level, supported by UEFA and OFC, is a real privilege. It gives them international experience, exposure, and helps them understand what it takes to improve and pursue their dreams.'
Karembeu was born and raised in Lifou, New Caledonia, and understands better than most the power of opportunity—and how rare it can be for Pacific Island players. He sees tournaments like the OFC U-15 Development Tournament as a vital first step in a longer journey.
'Before dreaming about professional football or playing in World Cups, they need competitions like this. It's where development starts. And for me, being here to support and inspire them is part of my responsibility,' reflected Karembeu, who won two UEFA Champions League titles with Real Madrid during his career.
The long-term goal, he says, is to see more nations from the Pacific competing regularly at FIFA tournaments. Karembeu referenced Oceania's increasing presence in youth World Cups (three teams from Oceania, New Zealand, Fiji and New Caledonia will compete at this year's FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar).
He noted that several players from the 2023 U-17 World Cup had previously taken part in the U-15 Boys Development Tournament—evidence of real progress.
But he also pointed to areas that need attention.
'What we're missing in the region are facilities and qualified human resources,' he said. 'It's not just about the players—it's also about educating coaches, technical staff and administrators. That's what UEFA Together is helping us do.'
Beyond the pitch, he believes football has a bigger role to play.
'In New Caledonia, we are facing social and political challenges. Football can be a solution. It can unite people, give young people something to believe in, and provide them with opportunities.'
Karembeu who works at Greek Super League club Olympiacos has voiced strong support for the newly announced OFC Pro League, set to start in early 2026.
'For me, it's a revolution. It's going to change football in the Pacific. But federations need to be ready. A professional league brings responsibility, structure and higher standards. It's not just about passion anymore: it becomes a job, a daily commitment.'
Karembeu will be closely following Auckland City FC's journey at the expanded FIFA Club World Cup in 2025, where they will represent Oceania as the only amateur club in a field of global giants.
'It's a dream come true,' he said. 'To face teams like Bayern Munich and Benfica—this is why these opportunities matter. Auckland City has shown they belong, now it's about belief. It's only 90 minutes. Anything can happen.'
Asked if he'd spotted any players at the U-15 tournament who reminded him of a young Christian Karembeu, he smiled.
'Many,' he replied. 'Some of these boys were here last year or the year before. There's continuity. Their federations are following their progress. This programme is working.'
And with UEFA and OFC continuing to grow their partnership, Karembeu is optimistic about what lies ahead.
'We're laying the foundations. From grassroots to professional, the future of football in Oceania is bright.'
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