CF Montréal has moved to strengthen its attacking lineup ahead of the 2026 Major League Soccer season, securing the services of veteran striker Daniel Rios on a free-agent deal. The club announced the signing on January 9, 2026, adding proven offensive depth to their roster.
A Proven MLS Goalscorer Joins the Roster
The acquisition of Daniel Rios brings a player with significant MLS experience to Montreal. Rios, who most recently featured for the Vancouver Whitecaps, is known for his positional awareness and finishing ability inside the penalty area. His familiarity with the league and its demands is seen as a major asset for the Quebec-based club.
The signing was finalized as a free transfer, meaning CF Montréal secured the player's services without paying a transfer fee to another club. This type of deal is often sought after by MLS teams looking to add quality within the league's salary cap structure.
Experience from Recent Playoff Battles
Rios arrives with recent high-stakes experience, having played for the Vancouver Whitecaps during the 2025 MLS Cup playoffs. He was on the pitch for Vancouver in Game 1 of their first-round series against FC Dallas on October 26, 2025, at BC Place in Vancouver. That match, which ended in a 1-1 draw, saw Rios directly involved, being defended by FC Dallas's Osaze Urhoghide during the second half.
This playoff exposure is invaluable, providing Rios with a clear understanding of the intensity and pressure required to succeed in the latter stages of the MLS season—a quality CF Montréal's management hopes he will bring to his new team.
What Rios Brings to CF Montréal
The Mexican forward offers a traditional number nine presence, a profile that can complement the existing attacking players in the squad. His role will likely be to hold up play, link with midfielders, and, most importantly, convert chances in front of goal. His signing addresses a clear need for a reliable target man who can shoulder the goal-scoring responsibility.
For Rios, the move represents a fresh start and an opportunity to establish himself as a key figure for a new club in the Eastern Conference. The January timing of the deal allows him a full pre-season to integrate with his new teammates and adapt to the tactical philosophy of the coaching staff.
This strategic move by CF Montréal's sporting department signals their intent to compete vigorously in the upcoming campaign. Adding a player of Rios's caliber on a free transfer is considered astute business, potentially yielding high rewards for the investment. Fans will be eager to see how quickly the new striker can adapt and start contributing goals to help propel the team up the MLS standings.
