Atlético Ottawa announced on Wednesday the acquisition of defending Canadian Premier League (CPL) champion, defensive midfielder Aboubacar Sissoko, on a two-year contract running until the end of the 2025 season.

Sissoko, aged 28, brings with him a wealth of experience from his tenure with Ontario rivals Forge FC (Hamilton, ON), where he clinched consecutive CPL titles over the past two seasons. Notably his triumph includes the 2022 CPL final, where Forge FC bested Atlético Ottawa, with a standout performance in midfield by Sissoko witnessed by 15,000 fervent fans at TD Place.

Carlos González, the head coach of Atlético Ottawa, expressed his excitement about the signing, stating, “With the arrival of Aboubakar Sissoko, we add secure value to our midfield. Sissoko is a player who fits perfectly with the characteristics we are looking for as a team and that this league demands. Energy and box-to-box ability, natural talent, and the mentality of a great competitor. We are looking forward to seeing how he complements and adds depth to our midfield this season.”

Born in Bamako, Mali, Sissoko’s journey to professional soccer began at the age of 11 when he relocated to Montréal. His early years saw him honing his skills in Ligue1 Québec (formerly known as PLSQ), representing clubs such as CS Longueuil and CS Mont-Royal Outremont, before making a significant impact in U SPORTS with Montréal Carabins (Université de Montréal).

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Sissoko’s influence and ability didn’t go unnoticed as he secured a contract with Halifax Wanderers, followed by a pivotal role in their 2020 CPL Island Games Final campaign culminating hin the midfielder’s first CPL final appearance. His stellar performances led to a stint with Indy Eleven in the United Soccer League (USL), where he crossed paths with familiar faces such as Atlético Ottawa defender Karl Ouimette and former captain Carl Haworth. After a successful tenure with Indy Eleven, Sissoko returned to Canada to join Forge FC, where he emerged as a linchpin in The Hammers’ midfield.

“I am very happy to have made this move and to have joined Atlético Ottawa,” said Sissoko as he expressed his enthusiasm about joining Atlético Ottawa. “The move brings me closer to my family, to a beautiful city, and to play for a team that will be a top contender to win the championship this year.”

Sissoko’s impressive track record, coupled with his commitment to elevating the team’s performance, underscores Atlético Ottawa’s ambition for the upcoming season. As he steps onto the pitch adorned in the red and white stripes, Sissoko aims to replicate his winning mentality, delight the crowds of TD Place with his dynamic displays and contribute to the club’s quest for further glory in 2024.