It is official: Alphonso Davies will head to the Bundesliga.
Both Bayern Munich and the Vancouver Whitecaps announced the completion of the deal Wednesday.
“Alphonso Davies is a very big talent,” declared Bayern Sporting Director Hasan Salihamidžić in an official club statement. “At the age of 17, he offers a lot of promise for the future. Alphonso already possesses great ability, which is why a lot of top clubs were keen on him. I’m delighted he’s chosen FC Bayern.”
In a video released on Bayern’s social media accounts, Davies said, “I’m very happy about my transfer to FC Bayern. As a kid I always dreamed about this moment and now the dream has come true. But now the hard work continues, I have to give everything to make the most of this opportunity.”
🗣️ @AlphonsoDavies: "I'm very happy about my transfer to #FCBayern. As a kid, you dream about this moment and I'm happy it came through. Now it's time to continue working, I have to give everything to make the most of this opportunity." #MiaSanMia pic.twitter.com/JTZ51T0ZEr
— FC Bayern (@FCBayernEN) July 25, 2018
Vancouver Whitecaps FC co-owner Jeff Mallett called the deal “a landmark transfer for our club, country, and league.”
“Youth development is a core part of our club,” Mallet said. “We provide player development opportunities across Canada through regional camps, tournaments, our national academy centres and residency program.
“We are proud to be developing players for our club and Canadian national teams at all ages. Alphonso is an inspirational example of what is possible, and we are excited about how this transfer showcases our commitment to homegrown players for our club and country.”
Added Whitecaps FC president Bob Lenarduzzi: “Our entire team, from our youth coaches right through to our first-team coaches and support staff, have worked collaboratively for the past few years to nurture Alphonso’s exceptional talent. Alphonso is very special to us. We’re happy to have him for the rest of this season and excited to see him take on this new challenge next year.”
A word from the man himself.@AlphonsoDavies | #VWFC #HomegrownHero pic.twitter.com/G7PSyD9KnW
— Vancouver Whitecaps FC (@WhitecapsFC) July 26, 2018
Davies also addressed Vancouver fans on social media, saying he will remain with the club until the end of the season.
“Ever since I joined the ‘Caps when I was 14, they molded me throughout the years into the pro that I’ve become. Thanks to the fans for supporting me, I really enjoy playing in front of them in Vancouver,” Davies stressed in an official statement released by the club.
The Whitecaps will be back in MLS action this Saturday against Minnesota United.