Minnesota United has signed French fullback Romain Metanire from Ligue 1’s Reims using Targeted Allocation Money (TAM), the team announced today. Metanire will join the Loons pending a physical and receipt of his P1 Visa and ITC. Metanire will occupy an international spot on Minnesota’s roster.

“Romain is an experienced player and we have the mindset of bringing in players who can come in and compete for a spot straight away,” said MNUFC Head Coach Adrian Heath. “He’s been playing a really good standard in France. He’s very athletic, he can play in both halves of the field; great at defending but good at going forward as well. The role of the fullback has evolved, it’s multifaceted, you have to have the physical capabilities to defend, but you have to also be a threat in the opposition’s half. We are excited to have him in and it’s another step in the right direction in this critical offseason for the club.”

The 28-year-old defender joined Reims in 2017, helping the win Ligue 2 in 2017–18 and earn promotion to Ligue 1 for the 2018–19 season. During his time with Reims, Metanire played 5,071 minutes across 59 league games, earning five assists, and 210 minutes in two cup games. Metanire began his professional career with his hometown team FC Metz in October of 2008 on the reserve team. He was promoted during the 2010–2011 season and spent a total of eight seasons with Metz FC, making 145 league appearances and scoring two goals. Throughout his 10-year career, Metanire has played 18,774 minutes in 218 games, including appearances in the Coupe de la Ligue, Beker van Belgie and Coupe de France.

Metanire was born in France and is of Malagasy decent. He was called up to the Madagascar national team in 2018 and has made three appearances since, including his debut in a 2-2 draw with Senegal during 2019 African Cup of Nations qualifying. Metanire will be the first Malagasy player to play in Major League Soccer.

If you’re ready to stand and cheer, the best way to make sure you’ll be in Allianz Field in 2019 is to become a season ticket member with supporters season tickets. Fans can also join The Preserve, the official Allianz Field waiting list and enjoy benefits now. For more information, visit mnufc.com.

Transaction: Minnesota United signs Romain Metanire using TAM

VITALS
Romain Metanire
Position: Defender
Date of birth: 03.28.1990 (28 years old)
Height: 5’10”
Weight: 159
Last club: Reims
Hometown: Metz, France
Citizenship: Madagascar
Previous Experience: FC Metz (France, 2008–2016); KV Kortrijk (Belgian 2016–17), Reims (France, 2017–19)