It’s been an interesting few days for Vancouver Whitecaps FC, Camilo Sanvezzo, and Querétaro FC.
Rumours started circulating late last week that the Mexican side was sniffing around to sign Major League Soccer Golden Boot winner Camilo Sanvezzo, and that we would be unveiled this past weekend.
Last week, the Whitecaps dismissed it as a mere "rumour." Earlier on Monday, Sanvezzo appeared on the QFC home and twitter pages wearing the club’s kit.
The Whitecaps followed up the news with President Bob Lenarduzzi calling it both "unacceptable and inappropriate." The tweet had implied Sanvezzo was undergoing a medical evaluation ahead of joining Querétaro's Gallos Blancos (Spanish for White Roosters).
Camilo Sanvezzo's medical for Querétaro FC at Estadio Corregidora on 6 January 2014.
In a statement issued Monday, the Whitecaps reinterred that they had picked up Sanvezzo’s contract option for the 2014 season back in November, under terms that Sanvezzo had initially agreed to back in February of 2012. The Whitecaps informed Querétaro of this last week, and did so again today in writing.
“They were well aware of the fact that he was contracted to Whitecaps FC,” Lenarduzzi told reporters Monday. “From where I stand right now, I really believe the situation has been misrepresented to Camilo. I think he’s put a lot of faith in an agent and gone with his agent’s advice.”
“Camilo is under contract with the Whitecaps and cannot join Querétaro without the Canadian Soccer Association transferring his international transfer certificate, which they haven’t,” the Whitecaps said.
The Caps and MLS have said they sent a letter to Querétaro regarding the news above.
“We’re frustrated that it’s actually gotten to this stage,” Lendarduzzi said. “Having said all that, I think you need to take a step back from your frustration and make the best decision available to our club and also hear Camilo out.”
Late Monday evening, QFC’s President, Adolfo Rios, said that they have not signed Sanvezzo.
What’s next? What outcome do you want to see?
