Alexis Sánchez inspired by Messi, Suárez and Lewandowski for
According to News.
Context
Alexis Sánchez, a 37-year-old Chilean forward, joins CF Montreal as a designated player, bringing with him a wealth of international experience. After a brief spell at Sevilla, where he showed his skills in La Liga, he now has the opportunity to positively influence the team at a critical moment in its history. His experience could prove fundamental for the growth and development of young talents within the club.
Why it matters
Alexis Sánchez's arrival at CF Montreal marks a significant moment for MLS, as the league prepares for an evolution as the 2026 World Cup approaches. His experience and potential impact on young players can contribute to the club's development and raise the league's profile, especially in a period of changes in the transfer market. With MLS looking to attract new fans, the presence of a player of international caliber like Sánchez could prove crucial.
Key points
- Alexis Sánchez inspired by Messi, Suárez and Lewandowski for.
- Alexis Sánchez has joined CF Montreal as a designated player, aiming to inspire youth and raise the club's profile in MLS, in a time of great change for the league.
- Alexis Sánchez inspired by Messi, Suárez and Lewandowski to join MLS. Now he wants to bring joy to Montreal - The Athlet.
Alexis Sánchez, a 37-year-old Chilean forward, was unveiled as CF Montreal's new designated player on Tuesday, joining Major League Soccer (MLS) at a critical juncture in the league's history. As the 2026 World Cup approaches, MLS hopes to attract new fans and media partners, and expects a significant shift towards a summer-winter calendar starting in July 2027. Additionally, changes to strict team building restrictions are expected to allow MLS teams to broaden their horizons in terms of international recruiting.
Sánchez, however, represents a more traditional signing for the MLS, one that does not necessarily raise the profile of the top American soccer league. After a brief spell with Sevilla, where he scored four goals and provided two assists in 28 La Liga appearances, he joins a Montreal side who currently sit at the bottom of the table and have not won in their last five games. Luca Saputo, sporting director of CF Montreal, commented: "It's mainly a footballing decision. We have a lot of young people here, including many South Americans, who can learn a lot from a player like Alexis. Our first consideration is always what he can bring to the pitch. But obviously, with a player of Alexis' caliber, he brings a lot off the pitch too. So it was a perfect choice."
News of Sánchez's move to Montreal circulated last week, and there was also talk of a possible move to Inter Miami, where he could reunite with Lionel Messi, his former teammate at Barcelona. Instead of enjoying the sun and Latin American culture of Florida, Sánchez will play in a colder-climate MLS market best known for its hockey tradition. Despite this, "El Niño Maravilla" (The Boy Wonder) is eager to demonstrate to the world of football that the environment must not temper one's motivations.
With an impressive career that includes stints at Barcelona, Arsenal, Manchester United, Inter Milan and Marseille, Sánchez is not a product of a cutting-edge recruitment strategy by Montreal. His arrival is reminiscent of that of James Rodríguez, who joined Minnesota United last February but played only six games. Montreal hopes not to repeat that type of outcome. “This is something new,” Sánchez said of coming to Montreal. "It's a club that wants to grow, a city that wants to grow. They told me that hockey is very important here, so I hope that football can become the same. That passion, the people coming to the stadium, having fun as a family. And I can bring a little joy to the people, too."
Joy is one way to describe Sánchez's contributions to football. He made his debut in the Chilean first division as a teenager and has regularly showcased his talents in South America's major cup competitions. With his boyish smile, an intense way of playing and a penchant for scoring spectacular goals, Sánchez has become a respected professional and trophy winner in European football. "I have confidence in my abilities as a player," said Sánchez, adding that at Sevilla he could run more than 22-year-olds. "I was born to play football. I grew up playing football. It's a talent God gave me, and I find it easy to do. It comes easy to me. Football isn't just running; it's thinking, understanding the rhythms of the game. And I think I'll continue to play because it's easy for me."
MLS presents a different challenge. It's a physically demanding league that has humbled many world-class players. Additionally, MLS teams still lack the roster depth that elite players are accustomed to. Sánchez, like many big names before him, must accept his reality while trying to elevate the play of his teammates. On Tuesday, Sánchez said he wants to do the right thing: He wants to mentor young Montreal players, win titles and set a new professional standard for the club. “I will demand more from (young players),” he said. "I want the kids to learn, because I know they love football. I think my role in recent years has been to be professional, so that the young people can learn from me, showing that the team has heart and determination, and plays good football."
Sánchez joins other renowned players who see MLS as not just a league for men over 30 with beautiful stadiums. Messi is the unicorn of the league, a player of extraordinary caliber who has not lowered his standards since he arrived three years ago. Even after his career is over, Messi's willingness to come to MLS, continuing to produce heroics for his country on the international stage, could encourage other big names to do the same. “I'm very competitive by nature,” Sánchez said. "Sevilla wanted me for another year, but I decided it was time to close my European chapter and come here to Montreal. I saw all the world-class players coming here. I saw Messi, (Luis) Suárez, (Robert) Lewandowski and I said: 'Why not come and give me the chance to play here with the best players in the world?' To compete, which is what I love."
Sánchez has already started training with the first team and appears to be eyeing Saturday's match against LA Galaxy as an opportunity to connect with the city's growing Chilean expat population. The consecutive Copa América titles that Chile won in 2015 and 2016 established Sánchez as a great of his country. When asked on Tuesday about the influence he has had on Chilean football, particularly on Chilean children, Sánchez flashed his trademark smile and responded with the superstar charisma that has always distinguished him. "I am very loved at home by the children, and also by the grandmothers. I am very happy about this." But will he be able to win the hearts and minds of Montrealers?
What happens now
With Sánchez now part of CF Montreal, the club is expected to use his experience to improve performances on the pitch and establish a connection with the fans. His presence could also influence the club's future recruiting strategies, especially given expected changes to team building restrictions in MLS. Additionally, his impact could be closely monitored throughout the rest of the season as Montreal looks to move up the standings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is involved in the transfer?
Alexis Sánchez is the new player of CF Montreal.
Where does Alexis Sánchez come from?
Sánchez comes from a brief experience with Sevilla.
Why did you choose CF Montreal?
Sánchez chose Montreal to bring experience and joy, and to contribute to the development of young players.
What is the status of the transfer?
Alexis Sánchez has been introduced as CF Montreal's new designated player.
What will Sánchez's role be in the team?
Sánchez will play an important role in bringing experience and leadership to a young team.
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