Justin Mapp, who toured Europe in 2006 with the MLS Best XI, talks to Impact Media about that experience, as well as his expectations for next season in Montreal.
Q: What went through your mind when you were selected by the Montreal Impact in the Expansion draft?
A: It all happened so quickly. As a player you always hope you’re protected, but when I wasn’t, I really didn’t think anything would happen. Then I got a call from Jesse (Marsch, Impact head coach) to tell me the Impact was interested. Once that happened, I started to get a little excited about the idea.
Q: What do you know about the city of Montreal?
A: I didn’t know too much about the city before being drafted, but since then I’ve done some reading up on it and I’ve spoken to friends. I heard it has a great feel with the European culture and French language. I’m looking forward to getting up there and seeing what the team and the city has to offer.
Q: What kind of player are you?
A: I’m an attack-oriented midfielder who plays on the wings, left or right, and who likes to challenge the opposing teams’ outside backs. I try to create problems for opposing defenders by keeping them off balance either with a pass, cross or dribble. I like to keep them guessing in order to be dangerous around the net.
Q: How has MLS grown over your many years in the league?
A: The MLS has seen some tremendous growth over the years. In recent years, there has been an influx of European flair with international stars coming over and wanting to succeed. The skill level has increased and continues to do so. I think the league is going in the right direction and can one day compete with the biggest leagues in the world. Keep in mind this is a very young league. It’s only been around for some 15 years and has grown so much already.
Q: What has been the most memorable moment so far in your career?
A: In 2006, as part of the MLS Starting XI, I toured Europe and got a chance to play against the likes of Real Madrid. They beat us, but to get the chance to play against a guy like Roberto Carlos was really amazing. It was a great crowd. We got to walk around the stadium and check out the trophy cases and all the history. It was something I’ll never forget.
Q: Prior to your selection by the Impact, did you have any knowledge of or contact with the coaching staff?
A: I played with Jesse Marsch in Chicago, but I haven’t seen him in a while. He’s been around the game forever. I remember he always had a great soccer mind, even as a player, which translates well as a coach. I also worked under Mike [Sorber – assistant coach] as part of the National Team program. The coaching staff is young, positive and energetic, and they really want to do well. That is a recipe for success.
Q: What are your hobbies, what do you like to do off the pitch?
A: To be honest, I like to relax and take it easy when I’m not playing soccer. I play some golf when I can and I like to watch movies, hang out with friends. I like to learn new things as well. I am trying to improve upon my cooking skills and I think I will try to learn how to speak French as my next project. I’m pretty laid back.
Q: What are your expectations for next season?
A: I’m very optimistic. There will be some rough patches as an expansions side, but there are a lot of quality guys over here. I don’t know all of them, but I played against most. There is a good mix of veteran players and youth. Getting an early start on training camp in January will only help us come together and get to know one another. With the talent we have we can do good things.
