Fanni returns to finish 2019 season
Another MLS regular season is almost behind us. Just six games remain in the Impact’s 2019 campaign and the good news is Wilmer Cabrera’s men are still in the running, sitting right behind the playoff line, just three points behind Toronto FC in the last playoff spot.
The club will also play the final of the Canadian Championship at the end of September against Toronto FC, where it can get its hands on the Voyageurs Cup for the tenth time in club history and for the first time since 2014.
All that to say that there are many reasons to be hopeful for the Montreal club as it attacks this last stretch of the season. And another reason joined the club yesterday, in the form of Rod “Papi” Fanni.
The French centre-back joins the Impact until the end of the seaso and his role will be clear: help the team achieve its goals.
“I’m going to do what I do well, what I’ve already done here,” said Rod Fanni, speaking to the media on Tuesday morning at Centre Nutrilait. “I think there are a lot of things I can bring to the team, especially in terms of confidence. I’m here to bring the best of myself and a lot of positivity. We have a good chance of qualifying for the playoffs and we can’t neglect that.”
Of course, Fanni will also help the team in central defense. With Zakaria Diallo’s transfer, Rudy Camacho and Victor Cabrera both out injured, and Jukka Raitala questionable for Wednesday’s game against Vancouver Whitecaps FC at Stade Saputo (
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In the club’s last game against Toronto, the head coach was forced to use full-back Bacary Sagna as a central defender alongside Jukka Raitala, something the Frenchman has done only a handful of times during his long and illustrious career.
“It’s someone I truly appreciate,” said defender Bacary Sagna. “I’ve known him for a long time. We played together in the national team. He’s like my brother. We know the importance Rod has in a team. Not only on the field, but off it as well. He’s a physical presence and now he’s another solution from us. He’s a good example, because he always gives his best.”
Already settled in
Fanni’s return to Montreal for the remainder of the season was done quickly. The former French international had moved to Montreal with his family three months ago after spending the entire 2018 season with the club, starting 26 games last year.
The French defender also kept in touch with a few friends on the team and followed the club through social media as the season progressed.
“It’s a club I really love, and I love the city as well,” said Fanni. “It’s truly a pleasure to be here today. Time is running out, so I’ll make sure to be ready as fast as possible to help on the pitch.”
