The MLS Canadian players that made the switch to Europe after the World Cup
Players from the Canada men’s national soccer team showcased their talent in Qatar and attracted the attention of clubs in Europe’s top tier.
The Canada men’s national soccer team failed to go past the group stage at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in their second participation since 1986. Le Rouge did not win a game at the tournament, but they put up a good fight in their three matches in Qatar last month.
A positive note for Canada
Even though the CONCACAF side didn’t win a game, they stayed true to their style of play and competed against Belgium, Morocco, and Croatia. Several players showcased their talent in the biggest sporting event in the world and they caught the attention of several clubs in Europe’s top tier.
Confirmed transfers from MLS to Europe
The core of the Canadian national team that was called up to the campaign came from Major League Soccer and many of those players will be making the switch during the winter transfer window. It has been confirmed that Alistair Johnston and Ismaël Koné will be leaving CF Montréal to join Celtic FC and Watford FC respectively.
Celtic signed Canadian defender Alistair Johnston on a 5-year deal and he will join the team on January 1. The other Canadian player that will be traveling to Europe in the upcoming weeks is Ismaël Koné. The Canadian midfielder is set to join Watford on a record transfer fee for CF Montréal.
Koné has decided to join the Premier League side, even though he had offers from Italian, German and Dutch clubs. He will sign a long-term contract in the upcoming days and they believe that Koné is a young talent that they want to develop the way they did with Richarlison, Rodrigo de Paul, Bruno Fernandes, and Nahuel Molina.