SportsSoccerWhitecaps

American national team player leaving Europe to join Vancouver Whitecaps

Noah Strang
Noah Strang
|
Feb 11 2025, 3:45 pm
American national team player leaving Europe to join Vancouver Whitecaps
Kirby Lee/Imagn Images

The Vancouver Whitecaps have made a splash signing by bringing in forward Emmanuel Sabbi from Europe.

Sabbi most recently played in France’s top division, Ligue 1. He appeared in 15 matches for Le Havre.

The 27-year-old has plenty of experience playing in some of the world’s top leagues. He has scored 43 goals in 219 total appearances across professional divisions in Europe.

The Whitecaps’ new contract with Sabbi will keep him with the club through at least 2027 with an additional club option available for 2028.

“Emmanuel is an experienced attacking player who has played in one of the best leagues in the world,” said Axel Schuster, Whitecaps FC sporting director, in a press release.

“He’ll add another dimension to our attack, and he is capable of playing on either wing or up top. We’re excited to welcome Emmanuel to our club.”

Sabbi has represented the United States at various levels, including one cap for the men’s national team. The 5-foot-10 attacker has also appeared for his country at the U18, U20, and U23 levels.

“This opportunity with Whitecaps FC is an exciting new chapter in my journey, and I couldn’t be more thrilled! I know that God’s plan for me is bigger than my own choices, and I’m trusting in the process every step of the way,” said Sabbi.

“I’m beyond excited to give my all for this team, the amazing fans, and the incredible city of Vancouver. I can’t wait to be part of it, both on and off the field!”

This is not the only signing the Whitecaps have made in the past few weeks. They also brought in Canadian national team player Jayden Nelson, who is just 22 years old.

Both additions will help offset the loss of Scottish international Stuart Armstrong, who recently returned to the United Kingdom. Armstrong had been with the Whitecaps for just five months before returning across the ocean. 

The Whitecaps are entering a new era under manager Jesper Sørensen, who was hired in January from the Danish Superliga. 

ADVERTISEMENT