News broke yesterday that now-former Louisville City left back Enrique Montano had signed a contract to play with Sacramento Republic FC in 2017. Further details were not available. Surprise!

Republic coach and Rebecca Lowe husband Paul Buckle had nothing but good things to say about Kique’s signing:

“Enrique is a young player who, at just 23-years-old, is beyond his years technically with the ball at his feet,” said Head Coach and Technical Director Paul Buckle. “When he became available, we reached out. After speaking with him, we learned of his desire to return to California, and I feel that he is right for the club. He knows the area, knows the club and has a very good left foot. His ability to deliver the ball will be a great asset for us as we move into next season.”

Montano is from Salninas, California and went to San Jose State for college, so a return to NorCal is not much a surprise. The fullback never really quite fit his way into James O’Connor’s plans in 2016, so his departure from Louisville City isn’t revelatory, either. We always liked Kique, with his good looks, funny stories about falling over during games, and guitar playing/not playing, so he’ll be missed. Best of luck to Enrique Montano in his career with the Republic!