Moroccan centre-back Ahmed Kantari has signed with Toronto FC of Major League Soccer on a multi-year deal.
Kantari, 30, had a medical in Toronto on Wednesday before the team proceeded in finalizing the contract. Kantari travelled with the team to Columbus for Saturday's game against the Crew but will not be available for selection.
Kantari last played for Lens of Ligue 1 in France, making 31 starts and scoring one goal over the 14/15 season. Lens was relegated after last season finishing last place in France's top-tier. His former side confirmed the move to Toronto earlier Friday on Twitter and on its website. Kantari was also wanted by Dijon FCO of Ligue 2, with the player choosing Toronto over staying in France. TFC confirmed the transaction later on Friday.
The French-born, Moroccan international has spent time with Paris Saint-Germain, Strasbourg and Brest over his 10-year professional career. Kantari represented Morocco through qualifying for the 2014 FIFA World Cup and played for country at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations.
Other international defenders were considered by Toronto FC, but Kantari was deemed the best fit as an established left-sided central defender to play alongside Damien Perquis. Toronto was clear they were looking for more than a stop-gap solution in signing any new player. The 6'1 defender adds requisite size and provides a ready-to-win now solution to a back-line looking for an upgrade after last week's retirement of Steven Caldwell. Toronto FC was prepared to move quickly.
Kantari joins Perquis and Benoit Cheyrou at Toronto FC as relationships in France continue to have a positive influence on recruitment and development at the club.
Entertainment Plaza - TV, Movies, Sports, Music, Soaps
http://members.shaw.ca/almosthuman99
Babe Of The Month - Vote Now!
http://members.shaw.ca/almosthuman99/babeofthemonth.html
Hunk Of The Month - Vote Now!
http://members.shaw.ca/almosthuman99/babeofthemonthman.html
No comments:
Post a Comment