He was playing in England’s second division with Queens Park Rangers F.C.
The Montreal Impact announced on Thursday that it has come to terms on a two-year deal, with an option for 2020, with Canadian international right-back Michael Petrasso.
“Michael joining the roster is positive because he is a young Canadian international,” said Impact head coach Rémi Garde. “His qualities allow him to play in different positions and therefore offer many options for the team. The room he has for improvement is very interesting for him and for the Impact.”
“Michael is a young Canadian international who is an excellent addition to our defensive line,” added Impact technical director Adam Braz. “He has a high work rate and the right mentality, which are important characteristics for our group of players. We are looking forward to welcoming him into the team.”
“I’m very happy to join the Montreal Impact,” said Petrasso. “After being away for so many years, the prospect of coming back and playing soccer at home, in Canada, is very exciting for me. It’s a great opportunity and I’m looking forward to my new future in Montreal.”
Petrasso, 22, was part of English club Queens Park Rangers F.C. for the last six years, appearing in 11 games in the Championship, England’s second division, in one FA Cup game and one EFL Cup game.
Following a spell of loans, he also recorded five goals and two assists in 29 League One games, England’s third division, and played a total of 1,903 minutes for Oldham Athletic, Coventry City, Leyton Orient and Notts County. He also took part in five FA Cup games, one EFL Cup game and three EFL Trophy games.
He joined QPR’s academy in 2012, helping the U18 team win the Professional Development League 2 championship, before joining the U21 team in 2013. He previously spent two years with the Toronto FC Academy, between 2010 and 2012.
On the international stage, Petrasso has played eight games with the Canadian national team, including seven starts, mostly at right-back. He made his senior debut with the Reds at the age of 20, on June 3, 2016, against Azerbaijan. He recently took part in the 2017 CONCACAF Gold Cup in the United States, starting all four games during the tournament. He had previously played five games with the Canadian U23 team, and represented Canada at the CONCACAF U20 Championship in 2013 and 2015, and at the 2011 FIFA U17 World Cup, in Mexico.
Transaction: The Montreal Impact has come to terms on a two-year deal, with an option for 2020, with right-back Michael Petrasso.
MICHAEL PETRASSO
Position: Defender
Height: 5’6”
Weight: 140 lbs
Birthdate and birthplace: July 9, 1995, in Toronto, Canada
Citizenship: Canada
Last club: Queens Park Rangers (England)
Date acquired: January 18, 2018
