Fabian Herbers joins CF Montréal as veteran boost for 2025 MLS campaign | OneFootball

CF Montréal signed German midfielder Fabian Herbers, a veteran of more than 200 MLS games. At 31, Herbers will join the squad on a deal through 2026, bringing experience, versatility, and leadership to a midfield already featuring Samuel Piette and young talents like Caden Clark, Nathan Saliba, and Bryce Duke.

The arrival of Herbers and the weight of experience

Fabian Herbers is a name known to most MLS circles. With stints for Philadelphia Union and Chicago Fire FC, he has 19 goals and 24 assists in 205 regular-season games since his 2016 debut. His consistency and work ethic have made him a reliable presence on the field-exactly what CF Montréal needs as they rebuild for the 2025 season.

As club president Gabriel Gervais summarized: "Fabian is a versatile player who can operate as a central midfielder or in advanced roles. His work ethic and team spirit set a great example for our younger players."

Immediate impact on Montréal's midfield

In what has been an inconsistent 2024 season, second-year head coach Laurent Courtois will look to establish a more competitive identity this season in CF Montréal. Herbers brings depth and tactical flexibility in midfield to complement team captain Samuel Piette.

Herbers' ability to play as a playmaker or in advanced positions offers Courtois more options to adapt to various scenarios. His poise under pressure could prove invaluable in critical moments, particularly when the team needs someone to stabilize the game.

For young players like Caden Clark, who are trying to nail down their spots, Herbers' experience in moving between clubs and the pressures of MLS provides a great opportunity for mentorship. His ability to transition seamlessly between roles sets a standard for younger teammates to emulate.

Chasing relevance in the Eastern Conference

CF Montréal finished off 2024 with a Wild Card position in the Eastern Conference, which was below par. Consistency will be vital if they are to compete in such a hotly contested conference in 2025, as teams like Atlanta United and New England Revolution will make life hard for them.

With the signing of Herbers, CF Montréal has signaled a commitment to reinforcing their roster with veterans who can provide stability. Beyond his leadership, the team also gains a creative spark in midfield transitions—a critical component for a squad striving to climb the conference ranks.