Papua New Guinea international Raymond Diho has signed with Vanuatu United FC for the upcoming Oceania Professional League.
Diho told this newsroom that the move will bring him closer to PNG as he works to represent his new club Vanuatu United FC (VUFC) and push for a return in the PNG national side.
He said he was “feeling a lot of emotions” when he first received the call.
“But the most important feeling right now is excitement. I’m ready for a new start with new players and a different environment,” Diho said.
“The opportunity came quickly. They (VUFC) didn’t have much time to think about it. But it sounded like a great opportunity, so I took it. I think it will be a great change for me as a footballer and as a person.
“I think joining VUFC in the OFC Pro-League will definitely bring me closer to PNG. And whether it does or doesn’t, I will still work hard to get back there in the near future. I’m currently in Australia and will be flying over soon, but nothing has been confirmed yet.”
Vanuatu United FC General Manager Christian Happel also expressed his delight at securing Diho.
“Raymond is a talented and versatile defender with strong potential. His experience at international level and in youth professional football will be a key asset for us as we build a competitive squad. We are thrilled to welcome him to Vanuatu United FC,” Happel said.
Born in Port Moresby to PNG and Australian parents, Diho is the eldest of three brothers. His family relocated to Australia when he was seven years old, but his connection to his mother’s homeland remains strong.
He responded to former PNG men’s coach Warren Moon’s call-up in 2024 and made his debut for the PNG national men’s team in the Oceania Football Confederation at just 17 years old. At the time, he was playing for the North Geelong Warriors.
A former North Geelong Warriors and Melbourne Victory U21 player, Diho brings both talent and experience to his new club.
The club statement added that his signing marks another significant milestone in Vanuatu United FC’s ambition to compete at the highest level in the region.
Diho will join forces with the Vanuatu side against his countrymen and international teammates from PNG’s Hekari United FC, who will also compete in the league.
