Official: Bustos Departs Pacific FC

Pacific FC talisman Marco Bustos has left Pacific FC after three strong seasons in the isle, one of which brought the club its first-ever North Star Shield.

“Marco has brought a tremendous amount of dedication and excitement to the club throughout his time here,” said head coach James Merriman. “His passion and personality will be missed.”

The 26-year-old is looking a likely addition for Swedish top flight side IFK Varnamo, with the star CPL midfielder having also trialed with Toronto FC following the conclusion of both the 2022 CPL season and his contract.

Merriman described the fast-footed attacker as someone making a great example of the Canadian Premier League pathway, suggesting that he has indeed secured his move to European football.

“I believe Marco has progressed every season since coming to our team, he has developed on and off the field to become a complete player. He’s been an important player in our success as a Club and we wish him the very best in his career.”

Bustos looked sharp in all four of the Canadian Premier League’s seasons, his first of which was spent with hometown side Valour FC. In-all, he contributed 23 goals and 20 assists in just 90 appearances during his team in the Canadian top flight.

Prior to his time in the Canadian Premier League, Bustos started his career with the Vancouver Whitecaps, undergoing a loan to Atletico Zacatepec before suiting up for Oklahoma City Energy FC. He has also made six caps for the Canadian national team.

“It’s always difficult to put feelings into words, especially when those feelings stem from a place I called from for the past three years,” said Bustos online. “When I joined Pacific FC, I felt it was the right place that would allow me to grow and improve as a player, as well as win games and compete for a championship. In the end, not only did we make history by winning the club’s first-ever championship, but I evolved on a personal level as well.”

“I want to thank all my teammates who I’ve had the honour of sharing the pitch with, who played by my side through all the ups and downs, and eventually became my family. A special thanks goes to my coaches, staff, and ownership who I had the privilege of playing for. Their mentorship and guidance has been invaluable and I will cherish it forever. Lastly, thank you to the best fans in the league and the people of Vancouver Island for the endless love and support. We as footballers wouldn’t be who we are without you. I hope one day our paths will meet again. Until then, I will be a Trident cheering afar.”

With eleven confirmed player departures, Pacific has a lot of roster shuffling to do ahead of the upcoming season – and there’s still a big question mark on Manny Aparicio. The club has brought in three new players thus far, highlighted by the arrival of star CPL striker Easton Ongaro.