Atlético signs Didic, ‘one of the most reliable defenders’ in the CPL

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Atlético Ottawa has improved significantly with the signing of Canadian International defender Amer Didic, a highly coveted 29-year-old who left Pacific FC at the end of the 2023 season.

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Didic, who is regarded as one of the best players in the CPL, has a one-year contract with an option to extend for another season.

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“This is going to be a new challenge, and that’s something I was looking for, a new environment,” said Didić, who was born in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina, before moving to Edmonton at an early age. “Ottawa was able to provide me with this type of thing. The club’s vision lines up with me in terms of football, as well as being able to live in this city. Every time I’ve come here, the fans have been loud, the supporters section is thriving and the environment around the stadium has a real buzz. It was always special winning three points here, and now that I’m on the other side of things it’s something I’m going to take great pride in. It’s going to be exciting.”

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The 6-foot-4 Didic has 91 appearances in the CPL and has nine goals and six assists, and ended last season with the most Aerial Duels Won (92). Regarded as one of the best passers in the league, he has featured twice for the Canadian men’s national team and in every CPL season since the league was formed in 2019.

“With the addition of Amer, we signed one of the most reliable defenders in the league,” said Atlético coach Carlos González. “We consolidated our back line with a player that has a natural ability to win individual battles, very powerful in the aerial game and with a very safe building of the offensive play. We are very happy to have him in red and white since apart from his qualities already mentioned, he will provide us with experience and leadership from the defensive line.”

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CEO Fernando López also said he was excited to add a leader of Didic’s capabilities.

“We are excited to add Amer to our squad for the 2024 season,” said López. “His leadership qualities, locker-room presence and track record speaks for itself. Amer has demonstrated his immense value both on and off the pitch since the first days of the CPL. His experience, professionalism and presence will make him a natural leader within our team.”

dbrennan@postmedia.com

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