Times Colonist

Teen ’Caps star wants to make last game ‘something special’

-

VANCOUVER — When Alphonso Davies hits the field for his final Vancouver Whitecaps game today, his entire family will be watching from the stands.

It’s the first time this season that his parents and all of his siblings will be able to make it from Edmonton to see the young midfielder play.

“It’s going to be special,” the 17-year-old said after training last week. “I’m glad it’s this game.”

With the Whitecaps (12-13-8) missing the playoffs this year, today’s home game against the Portland Timbers will mark the last time Davies plays in Major League Soccer.

The Whitecaps signed a $22-million US transfer deal in July that will see the teen play for German soccer giant Bayern Munich next year.

Davies said he has been watching his new team, which currently sits fourth in the German Bundesliga with a 5-2-1 record.

“I’ve visualized myself playing there [in Germany]. But right now, my mind is here.”

The soccer star joined the Whitecaps’ residency program in 2015 and has steadily worked his way up to the starting lineup, gaining attention for his blazing speed and ability to control the ball.

He’s put up 18 points over 64 league games, including 11 assists and six goals this season.

Davies hopes he can enjoy one more win with his team today, and he’ll be looking for a chance to notch another memorable goal.

Today’s game is sure to be emotional, Davies said, noting that lot has changed during his time in Vancouver, thanks in part to those in the Whitecaps organizati­on and support from the team’s fans.

“I’ve grown a lot not only as a player, but as a young man as well,” Davies said.

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from Canada