Louis Verstraete (; born 4 May 1999) is a Belgian professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for A-League club Auckland FC.
In 2016, Verstraete signed a contract until 2018 with K.A.A. Gent's first team. On 22 December 2016, he made his senior team debut in the Belgian First Division A against Anderlecht, replacing Jérémy Perbet in the 83rd minute. On 16 March 2017, he scored his first senior goal for Gent in the UEFA Europa League round of 16 return game at Genk, making him the youngest goal scorer of that season's competition.
In December 2018, Verstraete moved to Belgium side Waasland-Beveren, on a loan deal until the end of the season.
In January 2020, Verstraete signed a contract for 3.5 years with Jupiler Pro League club Royal Antwerp, and was loaned to KV Oostende for the first six months.
In January 2021, Verstraete moved again on loan to Waasland-Beveren, until the end of the season. The loan deal includes a purchase option. On 18 April 2021, Verstraete became match winner for Waasland-Beveren in a crucial must-win match against Oud-Heverlee Leuven, in which he scored two goals to help the club avoid direct relegation.
On 17 September 2024, Verstraete joined Auckland FC for their inaugural A-League Men's season, alongside two other international visa players, Luis Felipe Gallegos and Guillermo May.
On 1 February 2025, Verstraete scored his first goal for the club in a 2âÂÂ1 win over Macarthur FC. On 9 March, in a 1âÂÂ1 draw with the Newcastle Jets, Verstraete received his first red card for the club, becoming only the second player in Auckland FCâÂÂs history to be sent off, after Adama Coulibaly.
Verstraete made 25 appearances during the 2024âÂÂ25 season, scoring two goals and providing three assists as Auckland secured the Premiership. His performances earned him a place in the Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) A-League Team of the Season, alongside teammates Hiroki Sakai, Francis de Vries, and Alex Paulsen.
Auckland FC