New Zealand defender Tim Payne, who drew major online attention during the World Cup due to social media fame, has confirmed he will play for Club Olimpia in Paraguay. Multiple reports say Payne became widely known after being highlighted by an influencer, El Scarso (Valen Scarsini), who pointed to Payne as the World Cup player with the smallest social media following. After the post, Payne’s Instagram following reportedly surged from about 4,700 to 5.8 million.
Following the spike in attention, several clubs in different countries—including Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Mexico—were reported to show interest in signing Payne. Paraguay’s Olimpia is now the club he selects. Reports also note that Payne started for New Zealand in the World Cup match against Iran, a 2–2 draw in Los Angeles.
Overall, the coverage links Payne’s move to his post-influencer visibility, while also situating it within his participation for New Zealand during the World Cup.
