Quebecer James Pantemis, who replaced Jonathan Sirois as CF Montreal's No. 1 goalkeeper, will look to restart his career with the Portland Timbers, where he will reunite with one of his former teammates.
The 26-year-old's contract option for 2024 had not been activated by Bleu-Blanc-Noir and he became a free agent on January 1st. The Timbers quickly showed interest and Pantemis could serve as a replacement for Aljaz Ivacic in net.
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On Friday he signed a two-year contract with an option until 2026. This gives him the opportunity to work again with Canadian defender Kamal Miller, who was transferred to the Timbers on Thursday. The latter spent just over two seasons in Montreal before being sent to Inter Miami CF at the start of last season.
After spending the last six years in Montreal, Pantemis played 34 games and allowed 51 goals. He also had seven shutouts. An injury forced him to miss activities for three months starting in February, and Sirois retained his place upon his return.
“James, he served his time in Montreal. He completely agrees with these words. He needs a new challenge. […] This will allow him to reach the level he deserves,” CF Montreal sporting director Olivier Renard said on December 1.