It’s done. A lot was said but in the end, French centre back Rod Fanni agreed to terms on a contract extension with the Montreal Impact that will keep him with the Bleu-blanc-noir until at least the end of the season, with an option for 2019. The man the locker room started referring to as “Papi Fanni” met with the media on Thursday morning to discuss this contract extension. Here are the highlights from the presser:
On his contract extension
I would like to start by thanking everyone involved: the coach for bringing me here, the president, who had a lot of confidence in me, the supporters, who welcomed me warmly from the very beginning, and my teammates, who helped me feel at home, and who I consider brothers. I’m very happy to stay with the Montreal Impact.
On life in Montreal
I love the people especially. It isn’t like this in many places. They’re very welcoming, warm, so much so that sometimes you have the impression that it’s too much. You would think you were brothers with everyone. In the beginning I wasn’t used to it because people are more detached in France. But to the contrary, I enjoy it quite a bit because I like interacting with people. I did however avoid the cold, so for now I won’t say anything about that. That might be why I like Montreal so much, maybe I’ll like it less in the winter.
On the team’s improved play
Wins bring confidence. We needed a series of wins just to bring a certain insurance to the group. Now, we’re learning how to play more as a team, whether it’s Rudy and I or other players. We also have a lot more confidence in each other, and that’s something we feel as a team. We need to stay vigilant, because I’ve been through this with other clubs. Sometimes, when we’re too comfortable, we can get caught, so that’s why I’m trying to make sure that everyone stays focused. We’ve been in a better moment for a few weeks now and I really want this to continue.
On what factored in his choice
My priority was to stay in Montreal. I took the time to think about it, because my agent presented me with other offers as well. I was looking for stability, because I wasn’t thinking only of myself, but of my family as well, and in the project itself. Montreal ticked a lot of boxes, and I think I made the right choice.
On playing with Rudy Camacho in central defense
I’m very happy to play with him. He’s a really good player. He didn’t start as well as everyone hoped, and there were a few critics. I don’t like that, because I saw from the first training session that he was a really good player. I’m happy everyone sees his quality now, and I think he can only get better. Day after day, we’re getting better and giving more confidence to the team. If we can continue to keep the clean sheets going, that’ll be fantastic.
