Stephen Eustaquio swiftly agreed to join Swansea City without hesitation. Following Canada’s successful advancement to the World Cup knockout stage, the midfielder was enticed by the opportunity to assist the Welsh club in their pursuit of a Premier League return and to collaborate once again with a familiar coach.
Swansea recently confirmed the signing of the 29-year-old from Porto, a renowned Portuguese team, to a two-year deal with an additional season option. Eustaquio emphasized that the presence of head coach Vitor Matos, a former colleague from Porto, significantly influenced his decision.
Expressing his excitement, Eustaquio stated, “It was an easy decision for me. I am confident in what I can achieve here, and I am thrilled with my choice.” Swansea concluded the previous season in 11th place in the Championship, distant from the playoff spots for promotion.
Acknowledging the challenges on the path to the Premier League, Eustaquio acknowledged, “The aspiration of contributing to a significant club aiming for the top division attracted me. While it will be tough, taking it one game at a time could lead to a remarkable atmosphere in the stadium, potentially resulting in a memorable season.”
Originally from Leamington, Ontario, to Portuguese parents, Eustaquio relocated to Portugal as a youngster. Prior to his tenure with Porto, he competed for Chaves in Portugal and Cruz Azul in Mexico. With over 150 appearances during his four-and-a-half-year spell at Porto, he briefly joined Major League Soccer’s Los Angeles FC on loan earlier this year.
Eustaquio, with 61 international appearances for Canada, participated in the last two World Cups. Notably, he clinched a crucial stoppage-time goal against South Africa in Canada’s 1-0 triumph in the Round of 32 at the recent tournament. He also assumed the captaincy in several matches due to Alphonso Davies’ injury.
Reflecting on Canada’s impressive World Cup run, Eustaquio remarked, “This summer was exceptional for us as a nation to progress so far in such a prestigious tournament. Breaking records and contributing with the winning goal against South Africa brought immense joy.”
Designated with jersey number 46 for Swansea, Eustaquio is poised to potentially debut in the upcoming match against Derby County this weekend.