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It was a hectic transfer deadline day for Remi Garde. With the Montreal Impact in a fight for there playoff lives, it was compulsory for Garde to bring in some reinforcements. Any help could increase his team’s chance of obtaining a playoff spot.
Quincy Amarikwa
Born: Bakersfield, California, United States
Date of Birth: October 29, 1987
Height: 5’9
When the signing of Jimmy Briand failed to come to fruition, Remi Garde had to quickly find a solution to bring in some much needed scoring punch. He then made the quick fire move by parting ways with Dominic Oduro in exchange for Quincy Amarikwa. Amarikwa may not be the same calibre as Jimmy Briand, however, he could potentially solve a few scoring issues up front.
American, Quincy Amarikwa played college soccer at UC Davis. During his tenure with, he led UC Davis to the second round of the NCAA tournament in 2008. After a successful college career where he accumulated 31 goals in 75 matches for UC Davis, he was drafted by the San Jose Earthquakes in the 3rd round of the 2009 MLS SuperDraft. Amarikwa is well travelled having played for San Jose, Colorado, Toronto, Chicago and now Montreal. In 2017, he was nominated for the MLS comeback player of the year award.
Quincy Amarikwa is an aggressive forward who utilises his superior strength and balance to hold the ball, allowing him to set up bonafide goal scoring opportunities. In 14 matches, Amarikwa has not yet found the back of the net. Despite his goal scoring woes, A change of scenery may be what’s needed to revitalize his season.
He will certainly bolster the attacking prowess of the Blue, Blanc et Noir.
Michael Azira
Born: Kampala, Uganda
Date of Birth: August 22, 1987
Height: 5’10
Remi Garde secured the services of Ugandan, Michael Azira for a 2020 4th round pick in the MLS SuperDraft.
Michal Azira is an experienced defensive midfielder who has a wealth of experience to his name. The seasoned veteran is in his 5th campaign in the MLS having played for the Seattle Sounders and Colorado Rapids. Azira does an admirable job at protecting the back line whilst transitioning the team’s play from defence to attack. The Ugandan national is a solid depth addition for the Montreal Impact. Azira will be tasked to play in the place of Samuel Piette and Ken Krolicki when necessary.
He made shrewd business by alleviating the Impact’s midfield and defensive depth with the acquisitions of Azira and Amarikwa. Hopefully, they’ll contribute to this team in it’s ultimate endeavour to reach the MLS playoffs.
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