With most teams getting close to completing their roster builds ahead of the 2024 Canadian Premier League season, it was a quieter week in terms of news around the league. With that being said, clubs, in particular Pacific FC and York United, added players who could prove to be key to their success this upcoming campaign. Ahead are the biggest stories from the week that was in the Canadian Premier League.
York United sign French goalkeeper Thomas Vincensini
One of the biggest questions coming into this off-season for the Nine Stripes was their goalkeeping situation heading into 2024. As of the end of the 2023 season, York United had no goalkeepers under contract heading into this year. But new General Manager Ricardo Pasquel got to work, first securing the return of 21-year-old goalkeeper Eleias Himaras. This week, York announced the signing of 30-year-old Thomas Vincensini to further secure the position. The French goalkeeper, who signed a one-year deal plus a club option, has a strong resumé including stints with his hometown SC Bastia in both Ligue 2 and Ligue 1 in France, and most recently with Royal Excelsior Virton in Belgium. Having an experienced presence at the back will be of utmost importance for a York United side who are expected to have a quite young backline for the 2024 campaign. Vincensini’s leadership and ability could be a big key to success for the Nine Stripes in 2024.
Pacific FC add Trinidad and Tobago international Reon Moore
With Easton Ongaro and Djenairo Daniels departing Pacific FC in January, there was a sizeable hole up front for the club heading into 2024. Enter Trinidad and Tobago international Reon Moore, who the Tridents announced on Friday had signed a two-year deal, with an option for 2026. Moore joins Pacific after an incredibly successful 2023 both domestically and internationally. His club side, Defence Force, did the double in Trinidad and Tobago, winning both the league and the knockout cup. The 27-year-old, meanwhile, scored four times for the Soca Warriors at the international level. Pacific FC will be looking for more of the same from their new talented number nine, as despite the club leading the league in chances created and expected goals last season, they often failed to convert on those opportunities consistently enough.
Vancouver FC announce signing of Canadian attacking midfielder Kembo Kibato
After four seasons playing in the USL Championship, 23-year-old attacking** midfielder Kembo Kibato** has returned home to sign with Vancouver FC of the Canadian Premier League. The North York, Ont. native spent time with Rio Grande Valley FC, FC Tulsa and most recently Hartford Athletic. In total he has over 100 matches of pro experience. Kibato came through Toronto FC’s academy, and spent the 2019 preseason with Forge FC prior the league’s inaugural season, but in the end spent four years stateside.
Valour FC extend contract of key attacker Kian Williams through 2025
The Winnipeg club locked down a key member of their core this past week with the announcement of a contract extension for 23-year-old Kian Williams through the 2025 campaign. The English attacker made 24 appearances in his first Canadian Premier League season, and was a key offensive contributor for the Valour FC. His four goals were tied for the most tallied by any Valour player last season, while he also added a team-leading five assists. Capable of playing out wide or through the middle as either an advanced midfielder or striker, Williams brings versatility and quality to the Valour frontline that will be essential to any success they have in 2024 and beyond.
Pacific FC and Atlético Ottawa reveal primary kits for 2024 season
As transfer season winds down ever so slightly, kit drop season is now in full swing. This past week did not disappoint, with both Pacific FC and Atlético Ottawa dropping stunning home kits for the 2024 campaign. Atleti unveiled the ‘Community kit’, for an incredible cause. Each kit sold will result in front of shirt sponsor Maple Leaf Farms donating a case of frozen chicken, enough to provide dinner for 30 people, to help tackle food insecurity in the region. Pacific, meanwhile, debuted the ‘Trident Territory kit’ a nod to the community on Vancouver Island.