Finn Linder

Finn Linder (born May 6, 2004) is a professional footballer who plays as a centre-back for HFX Wanderers FC. Born in Canada, he represents New Zealand at international level.

Early life Linder began playing youth soccer with Calgary Blizzard SC at age eight. In 2017, he was invited to trial with the English club Wigan's academy program. In December 2017, he was selected to join the Vancouver Whitecaps FC Alberta Academy Centre. He was named to Team Alberta in both 2017 and 2018 where he made the team of distinction. In 2020, he moved to Vancouver to join the Vancouver Whitecaps FC Academy.

Club career In March 2022, Linder signed a professional contract with Whitecaps FC 2 in MLS Next Pro. On June 12, 2022, he scored his first professional goal in a 2-2 draw against the Tacoma Defiance. At the end of the 2022 season, the club picked up his option for the 2023 season. After the 2023 season, he signed an extension for the 2024 season. In 2024, he signed three short-term loans with the Vancouver Whitecaps FC first team. On July 27, he made his first appearance with the first team in a friendly against Welsh side Wrexham AFC. On August 3, 2024, he made his first team debut in a official match, during a 2024 Leagues Cup match against Mexican side Tijuana. After the 2024 season, his option was picked up for 2025. He missed the 2025 season with an ACL injury.

International career Born in Canada, Linder has German and New Zealand heritage through his parents.

In March 2023, he was called up to the New Zealand U23 squad for a friendly series against China U23. In May 2023, he was named to the New Zealand U20 squad for the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup. He made his debut for the U20s on May 26, in the final group stage match against Argentina U20.

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