According to an exclusive interview with Joey Saputo obtained by ruefrontenac.com, the relationship between MLS and the Impact organization has improved to the point where Saputo seems convinced that Montreal will obtain an MLS franchise.
"I would be most shocked if we do not get a franchise" says Joey Saputo. This seems pretty much in line with what Don Garber wrote on his blog "the commissioner speaks" on May 8th.
"The commissioner now knows that the government is ready to help us, and he really appreciates this major change in our bid. We are also really pushing the fact that MLS marketing in Canada, would be most improved if the league could count on Montreal to go along with Vancouver and Toronto" mentions Saputo.
I'm guessing that the change in the bid that Garber appreciates the most is the fact that if the government pays for the expansion of Stade Saputo, he will be able to pony up the required expansion fee. Also getting Montreal in the league, will help the MLS secure a Canadian national TV contract.
What i also find interesting is that Joey mentions "the government is ready to help us"?? Does this mean he has got the "OK" for the 25$ million he requested for stadium expansion?
All in all, this is great news for Montreal footy fans..
Monday, May 11, 2009
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8 comments:
Interesting stuff to say the least. I'm sure it would be difficult for Saputo to keep Quebec's contributions under wraps if he has received a promise, but they very well could be working their way through the system (not that I know anything about that).
It's odd how quickly the relationship seems to have turned, but I'm rooting for Montreal's entry, so I'm happy to see it.
Good to see Montreal in. Now we just need some USL expansion in cities like Victoria, Hamilton, Ottawa and perhaps some prairie towns. That would make for a tremendous V-Cup.
Here, here. I am from Buffalo, so I love having cross-border teams in MLS. I would love to see USL increase its presence too. The V Cup could be incredible.
Does the franchise have enough money, though? I would think not if they couldn't afford the expansion fee. I hope everything works out. I think they'd be a good addition to the league.
Enough money? Hit the grocery store and see the Saputo name everywhere...
I'm dreaming of Olympique de Montréal for various reasons
agree with Olympique Montreal. Gotta drop the corny hockey name.
Yes, Olympique Montreal would be a perfect name for them when they move up to MLS. Especially as they're in the shadow of Stade Olympique as it is. Even better would be RC Olympique Montreal.
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