As the Vancouver Whitecaps prepare for an all-Canadian battle with Toronto FC tonight, they'll do so without one of their most inventive and creative players.
The Whitecaps sold Davide Chiumiento to FC Zurich for an undisclosed transfer fee, a move that abruptly ends the playmaker's time in MLS. The 27-year-old Chiumiento, a Switzerland native, did not score a goal this season, but he had a team-high five assists in 16 games (15 starts).
Last season, Chiumiento had a team-high nine assists. He was known for his technical skill, back-heel passes and ability to make plays out of very little, and his departure presumptuously opens up a more permanent place on the field for 33-year-old Designated Player signing Barry Robson but it also takes away one of the Whitecaps' more capable players in the attacking third. Even with its arsenal of attacking players, the Whitecaps have mustered just 19 goals in 18 games, 13th-most in the league.
"Davide has been a very good player and ambassador for Whitecaps FC during his time with the club," Whitecaps coach Martin Rennie said in a release. "This is a great opportunity for him to be closer to his family while continuing his soccer career."
What do you think of this development? Surprised to see Chiumiento get sold? Did you think he was one of the more exciting players in the league?
Share your thoughts below.