CANADIAN TRANFERS

Sebastian Zucchet

After Canada qualified for their first World Cup since 1986, Canadians would finally have their chance to shine on an international stage, where everyone is watching. These players would potentially be able to make moves to Europe to help grow the game and Canada’s reputation in the footballing world.

Now that the tournament is done and dusted, the transfer rumours are already starting to unfold. Canada have had three of their players make overseas moves since then after excelling on the world stage. The three players are Ismael Kone, Alistair Johnston, and Derek Cornelius. We’ll take a look at how these transfers can benefit the players, and the clubs they’ve joined.

Derek Cornelius-Malmo

Although Derek Cornelius didn’t get minutes in the World Cup, there is no denying he is a talented player. Only 25 years old, Cornelius has had experience playing in Europe before moving back to the Vancouver Whitecaps on loan. The central defender was a key player in the Greek Super League with his former club Panetolikos, starting in 87% of their matches.

After the World Cup it was announced that he was signing a three year contract with top Swedish club Malmo, who played in the Champions League as recently as the 2021/22 season. Since Sweden plays in a summer league, we will not be able to see him play until April, but you can bet that he will thrive in that team and help lead them back to the top of the Swedish Allsvenskan.

Ismael Kone-Watford

One of Canada’s most exciting talents almost got his big move on deadline day in August but the agreement between CF Montreal and Sheffield United just wasn’t going to happen in time.

He really impressed during his minutes against Croatia, sharing the midfield with one of the greatest of all time, Luke Modric. Sheffield United’s promotion rivals Watford bought Kone after the World Cup for a fee of 8 million euros and he is on a 3 year contract.

He made his debut Saturday in Watford’s 2-0 loss to Reading in the third round of the FA Cup. Despite the loss, Kone stood out in the midfield and received very high praise from manager Slaven Bilic, and the Watford fans. There is no doubt that come the end of the season, he will have solidified his role in that central midfield and be a conductor in Watford’s push to return back to the Premier League.

Alistair Johnston-Celtic

One of Canada’s household names and breakthrough stars at the tournament was Alistair Johnston. A great piece to have in the left back position as he utilizes his pace and defensive mindset to stop players from cruising up and down the wing. The game he impressed most in was the opener against Belgium. The day after that match, there was heavy interest from Scottish giants, Celtic.

It didn’t take long for him to sign the contract and let the hype begin. Celtic got him for only 3.5 million which is a huge steal in this market. He finally made his long awaited debut on January 2, against Rangers, Celtic’s biggest rivals. Talk about a tense debut. The game finished 2-2 with Johnston being one of the most noticeable and pivotal players on the field.

He was even better in his next game against Kilmarnock and has become a fan favourite already, with fans asking for lifetime contracts and he also received the nickname “Canadian Cafu”. It is fair to say that he will be crucial in Celtic’s goal to win back to back championships and get back into the Champions League.