Cheikh Sabaly opens up on choice to join Vancouver Whitecaps

Senegal international Cheikh Tidiane Sabaly has defended his decision to sign for Major League Soccer (MLS) outfit Vancouver Whitecaps.

With his contract at FC Metz expiring next summer the Senegalese international made the decision to join the Vancouver Whitecaps in the USA.

Cheikh Sabaly Media Availability | March 3, 2026#VWFC pic.twitter.com/OjBgpRkIS8

— Vancouver Whitecaps FC (@WhitecapsFC) March 4, 2026

Sabaly officially made his Major League Soccer debut on Sunday for Vancouver Whitecaps during their resounding 3-0 victory against Toronto. Sabaly had missed the first matchday of the North American Championship while awaiting his work permit for the United States.

The 2025 African champion made his debut coming on in the 71st minute to replace Adriel Jackson where a brace from Thomas Muller and a goal from Brian White allowed Vancouver to win this all-Canadian duel and secure a second consecutive victory in MLS.

MLS is a good league

Speaking after the game, Sabaly said: “My first week here went well. I’m very happy to be here. It’s a new experience for me. It’s great.

“My first match also went well. I’m very happy to have made my debut in front of our fans. It’s a new adventure, a new step for me. MLS is a good league. I’m excited to play more matches and prove myself. It’s very exciting to be able to play so many matches in MLS.”

He added: “We have a very good team. With the mentality we have, we can achieve great things.”

Sabaly had separate loan spells in France

Cheikh Sabaly made a move to the United States this year from Ligue 1 side Metz with loan spells at Pau and Quevilly-Rouen. He has 12 caps with a goal and he was a member of the Senegal squad that defeated Morocco 1-0 to win their second Africa Cup of Nations title.

During his time at Metz, Sabaly had three separate loan spells in France. He spent the 2021-22 Ligue 2 season with Quevilly-Rouen Métropole, starting 12 of his 18 appearances across all competitions and registering two goals as well as three assists.

The decision by Cheikh Sabaly to join Vancouver Whitecaps represents a new chapter in his professional career. After spending several seasons developing in French football, the Senegal international felt the time was right to explore a new challenge in Major League Soccer. The move to North America gives Cheikh Sabaly an opportunity to gain more regular playing time and showcase his abilities on a different stage.

For Vancouver Whitecaps, the arrival of Cheikh Sabaly provides additional attacking depth as the club aims to remain competitive throughout the MLS season. Known for his pace and ability to operate in wide attacking areas, Sabaly can offer the team more creativity and attacking options going forward. The coaching staff believe that the experience he gained in France will help him adapt quickly to the demands of MLS.

Many African players have successfully built their careers in Major League Soccer in recent years, and Cheikh Sabaly hopes to follow a similar path. The league has grown significantly in popularity and competitiveness, attracting players from across the world. By performing well for Vancouver Whitecaps, Cheikh Sabaly could strengthen his reputation as a reliable attacking player at both club and international level.

The Senegal international will also be eager to continue contributing to the success of his national team. With major competitions always on the horizon, strong performances from Cheikh Sabaly at club level could help him remain in contention for future call-ups. His experience and versatility in attack make him a valuable option for the national team setup.

Supporters of Vancouver Whitecaps will now be watching closely to see how quickly Cheikh Sabaly settles into his new environment. If he continues to adapt well and delivers consistent performances, he could become an important player for the club during the MLS campaign. The early signs from his debut suggest that the Senegal forward is ready to embrace the challenge and make a meaningful impact in the league.