Coverage from our journalist at the lower leg area
Montreal CF is gearing up for a highly anticipated match against Atlanta United this Saturday evening at Saputo Stadium. The game promises to be a thrilling encounter, as both teams have had a rollercoaster of a season so far.
In a press conference, Montreal CF coach Marco Donadel expressed his optimism, citing the team's maturity and resilience shown in recent League Cup matches. However, he also acknowledged that the team is in an "emergency situation" due to injuries and the unavailability of key players, including Samuel Piette, Jalen Neal, Giacomo Vrioni, and Joel Waterman.
A lot has changed since Montreal CF lost to Atlanta United in the season opener in February. Notable departures include Laurent Cournoyer, Nathan Saliba, George Campbell, and Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty. On a positive note, Efrain Morales, a defender for Montreal CF, recently signed a contract extension, tying him to the team until 2028 with an option for an additional year.
In a bid to strengthen the team, Montreal CF has made a significant move by acquiring midfielder Matty Longstaff from Toronto FC. The trade, officially announced on August 13, saw Montreal CF part ways with forward Jules-Anthony Vilsaint and up to $275,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM). Longstaff is expected to add much-needed midfield depth to the Montreal CF squad.
Despite the arrival of Longstaff, the Montreal CF transfer market activity has primarily consisted of departures rather than arrivals. The club's recruitment director, Luca Saputo, is expected to hold a press conference before the transfer market closes on August 21st, potentially revealing new faces joining Montreal CF.
Coach Donadel believes that Montreal CF's attackers and goalkeeper could win the next five games. He also mentioned that Efrain Morales, who previously played for Atlanta United, will offer advice to his new teammates ahead of the match against his former team.
The playing style and tactical scheme of Montreal CF have changed since the season opener. Thomas Gillier, a goalkeeper on loan from Bologna, is one of the recent additions to the team, adding a fresh perspective to the goalkeeping department.
Both Montreal CF and Atlanta United are having disappointing seasons despite a promising start. The Bolivian international, Efrain Morales, believes that Atlanta United may change their approach due to his knowledge of their playing style.
As the transfer deadline approaches, the focus remains on Montreal CF's efforts to strengthen the squad and secure a much-needed victory against Atlanta United. The upcoming press conference by Luca Saputo could provide some insight into the club's plans for the remainder of the season.
[1] Montreal Gazette [2] MLSsoccer.com [4] Sportsnet [5] ESPN
During the intense battle between Montreal CF and Atlanta United, coach Donadel spoke about the absence of key players like Samuel Piette, Jalen Neal, Giacomo Vrioni, and Joel Waterman, and their impact on the team's performance, as these players are all crucial to Montreal CF's midfield.
Given the team's recent difficulties, with many players out due to injuries, it's important to note that the acquisition of midfielder Matty Longstaff from Toronto FC could provide a much-needed boost to Montreal CF's midfield depth before the upcoming match against Atlanta United.
