Forge Signs Manjrekar James (Yes, Again)

Canadian international Manjrekar James is back for a second spell with Forge FC.

The 33-year-old veteran defender spent the 2023 CPL season with the hammers, enjoying a North Star Shield win and a defender of the year nomination before transferring to LD Alajuelense for what was one of the biggest CPL transfer fees at the time.

The defender went on to make over 50 appearances for the Costa Rican side, adding another title to his cabinet by way of the Concacaf Central American Cup in 2024 and consecutive Recopa de Costa Rica trophy wins for Alajuelense.

James was then sent on a brief loan to Santos de Guapiles before moving on to New Zealand with Wellington Phoenix. After making 20 appearances and adding two goals for the A-League side, he left in May amidst speculation that a return to Canadian soil might be up next.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Manjrekar back to Forge,” says Forge FC head coach and sporting director Bobby Smyrniotis. “He knows our environment and what it takes to win here, and his international pedigree and experience across multiple continents will add real quality and leadership to our group.”

James, whose career has seen him feature in the UEFA Champions League, win Denmark’s domestic league and cup, and lift the aforementioned North Star Shield in Canada, has also represented his country some seventeen times.

Suffice to say, the veteran centre-back arrives as an incredibly solid defensive acquisition for Bobby Smyrniotis and company.

The club has also confirmed that midfielder Khadim Kane has been placed on the season-ending injury, freeing up a roster spot for Forge. The 21-year-old hadn’t featured for the club this year, having first arrived in 2023 after signing an Exceptional Young Talent contract.

Header Image Photo Credit: John Jacques