We are back for another week of CPL Corner as teams continue to jockey for position as we get closer to the playoffs. It’s an absolute cluster at the top. I may be uninformed, but I believe Cavalry are the first team this season to string together five straight league victories.
We’ll take a look at things at the 3/4 mark of the season next week, but today I will spotlight some young players that have the potential to make big moves.
Kwasi Poku recently made CPL history when he was sold for a record undisclosed fee to RWD Molenbeek in the Belgian second division. It’s an incredibly exciting opportunity for the young Canadian who had an incredible 2024 with Forge.
So that got me thinking about what other young exciting players could be in line for a move to Europe? I have four players picked out, but I’d love to hear what you think.
Matteo de Brienne
Okay, let me just say I had this idea a week ago and de Brienne was my first and most obvious choice. Well, then it turns out the left-back is actually in talks with a Swedish Allsvenskan side. Matteo is such a young, exciting player and his market value on Transfermarkt has been on an upward trend since going pro. Don’t be surprised to see him get a CanMNT call-up at some point in his career.
Themi Antonoglu
Another fun player who plays down the left. The 23-year-old former TFC Academy product has been a standout player for a Valour side that has struggled to get out of the basement. His six assists are tied for top in the league, and he’s contributed to 30% of his club’s goals this season. Players who can supply good balls into the box are always in demand. He would thrive if given a chance across the pond.
Grady McDonnell
If there is one thing that Vancouver FC does well, it’s give minutes to teenagers. Grady McDonnell signed from the Whitecaps academy this year as one of several BC players to join the Eagles. At just 16, he’s shown flashes of skill and has been a spark plug coming off the bench, even supplying an assist. He’s also been called up to Ireland’s youth squads and had training stints with multiple clubs, which means there are eyes on him.
Emil Gazdov
I’d be doing Forrest a disservice if I didn’t put a keeper on the list. Gazdov has been one of the very few bright spots for a Pacific side that hasn’t given him any goal support. Five clean sheets is a big reason why the Tridents aren’t firmly in last place. The 20-year-old has also done a loan stint in Germany with Nurnberg’s U19 squad. I think he has sights on playing overseas and this season will definitely help his cause.
Do you want to see these players make a move to Europe, or do you want to be selfish and keep them to yourself? Let me know!
