Ignacio Piatti’s surprise wall of fame induction: The legend returns to CF Montreal

Ignacio Piatti is a living legend and an important player in CF Montreal's recent history. His talent, charisma, and amazing stats transformed him into an idol, not only for the fans but for the very identity of the team itself. Now, at a well-deserved time, Piatti will go down in CF Montreal history by joining the Wall of Fame. And it wouldn't be more fitting. Because when a player becomes so decisive, such a game-changer, they stop being just a simple player to become a symbol.

Follow MLS Multiplex on X (Twitter).

Piatti and CF Montreal's MLS Era

Nacho Piatti's arrival at CF Montreal in 2014 marked an instant impact on the field of play. He did not take too long to become the heartbeat of the team. Capable of scoring goals and creating plays that opponents were struggling to retain, Piatti brought an intensity and creativeness that changed the way Montreal had been competing in Major League Soccer.

His numbers alone are enough: 66 goals, 35 assists in 135 regular-season games, before considering his crucial performances in the playoffs and international competitions. No doubt, Piatti was one of the main reasons Montreal reached new heights such as the Concacaf Champions League final in 2015 and the MLS Eastern Conference Final in 2016.

But the influence of Piatti goes way beyond the numbers. It is his leadership on and off the pitch that really makes him stand out. He did not just make the team perform better, he lifted the morale and confidence of his teammates. Therein lies the difference between great and average players-the power to change the world around them.

The legend who built his own legacy

At times, soccer is just about the numbers game, but in the case of Piatti, there's something more deep-seated. His controlling of the pace and delivery when it mattered most, that translated to a connection with the fans few players ever experienced. The talent was undeniable, but it was the passion and commitment which won the hearts of Montreal's supporters for real.

During the six seasons with Montreal, for four consecutive years, he was designated MVP of the team, which had never happened in the history of the club. This only proves just how important he is for the team. Of course, it is impossible not to mention that he once appeared three times in the MLS All-Star team and was named to the league's Best XI in 2016 and 2018.

It's hard to discuss Piatti without remembering the moments where he electrified the stadium. Whether it was jaw-dropping dribbles, long-range goals, or even pinpoint assists, Piatti for years was the maestro of CF Montreal's attack. He didn't just take part in goals; he made them.

Piatti's lasting impact

Ignacio Piatti is not measured by the trophies and individual awards, but rather by changing the mentality of CF Montreal. Prior to his arrival, this team never found its feet in MLS.

His legacy is clear in the way in which the club now honours his journey. Putting him on Stade Saputo's Wall of Fame is anything but symbolic. It's recognition that Piatti did what only a handful of players can: he defined an era.

And when Piatti is celebrated on September 14 during the game against Charlotte FC, he will definitely have solidified himself in club lore. Not simply as just another player, but one of those key faces that helped turn CF Montreal into a competitive force in MLS.