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Vancouver FC Signs Rising Star Emrick Fotsing to Exceptional Young Talent Contract
February 11, 2025

Grady McDonnell may have flown the nest in a club-record-setting transfer to Club Brugge, a defining moment for Vancouver FC—a testament to the club’s ability to develop young Canadian talent and launch them onto the global stage. But as one star spreads his wings, another is ready to rise. Enter Emrick Fotsing, the 17-year-old midfield sensation who has signed with Vancouver FC through 2027, with a club option for 2028, on a Canadian Premier League (CPL) Exceptional Young Talent contract.

“Our dedication to developing the next generation of football stars is already proving successful. Grady McDonnell’s rapid rise from Vancouver FC to Club Brugge in just one year is a clear example of our ability to provide the right environment for young players to thrive,” said Rob Friend, Vancouver FC’s Co-Owner, President, and CEO. “Emrick now steps into that same pathway, and we are excited to help him reach his full potential on the professional stage.”

Hailing from Mascouche, Quebec, Fotsing has been turning heads since his early days at AS Mascouche and AS Blainville. His talent and leadership quickly earned him a place in the CF Montréal Academy in 2021, where he captained the U-17 squad and showcased his ability in MLS NEXT Pro. A natural leader with a strong tactical understanding, he was invited to train with Bologna FC’s Academy last December, further solidifying his reputation as one of the top young midfielders in the country. Now, he brings his skill, energy, and ambition to Vancouver FC, a club committed to developing and elevating the next generation of Canadian soccer talent.

Emrick Fosting playing for CF Montreal Academy

“Emrick Fotsing is an exceptional talent, and we are incredibly excited to welcome him to the Vancouver FC family. His extraordinary athleticism, football intelligence, and maturity at such a young age demonstrate that he is ready for the Canadian Premier League challenge,” said Head Coach Afshin Ghotbi.

The Exceptional Young Talent contract is a CPL initiative designed to provide elite Canadian players under 18 with a clear pathway into professional soccer. This contract allows high-potential young players like Fotsing to earn first-team opportunities early in their careers, accelerating their development in a competitive environment. For Vancouver FC, signing Fotsing under this structure reinforces their commitment to nurturing Canada’s best young players and ensuring they receive meaningful minutes at the professional level.

Fotsing is eager to prove himself on the pitch and contribute to the team’s success. “I know that Vancouver FC is a club that believes in young players and helps them grow. That’s exactly what I need at this stage of my career, and I can’t wait to get started,” he shared.

Emrick Fotsing on a training stint in Italy with Bologna FC’s academy

“Fotsing is known for his box-to-box playing style, showcasing incredible versatility in both attack and defense. His impressive work rate, combined with a deep understanding of the game, makes him a standout talent in his age group,” Ghotbi added. “He follows in the footsteps of players like TJ Tahid, James Cameron, and Grady McDonnell, and we are proud to continue our focus on fostering the next generation of Canadian internationals.”

Beyond the pitch, Fotsing is looking forward to making the Fraser Valley his new home. A huge sports fan, he has a deep love for basketball making it likely he’ll soon be catching a Bandits game. As he settles in, he’s excited to embrace the local community and immerse himself in everything Vancouver FC and the Valley have to offer.

“The club believes that Emrick has the potential to reach great heights not only at Vancouver FC but also in the international football scene,” Ghotbi concluded.

“We are thrilled to welcome Emrick Fotsing to Vancouver FC. This signing is a testament to our bold ambition as a club—to identify and attract the best young talent in Canada. Emrick is a dynamic player with immense potential, and we are committed to investing in his growth, just as we do with every young player who joins our club,” added Rob Friend.

Vancouver FC supporters can expect to see a dynamic, composed, and technically gifted midfielder who plays beyond his years. Whether breaking up play, dictating tempo, or driving forward with purpose, Fotsing has all the tools to make an immediate impact in the CPL. With the 2025 season fast approaching, Vancouver FC continues to build a squad that blends experience with youthful energy, ensuring success today and growth for the future.

Fotsing’s journey is just beginning, and Vancouver FC is the perfect place for him to take flight.

Vancouver FC recently launched Season Memberships for the upcoming 2025 Canadian Premier League Season. Fans looking to join the Eagles at the Langley Events Centre for the upcoming season can purchase tickets here.