WATCH ABOVE: Global’s Elysia Bryan-Baynes is live as the Montreal Impact’s new star striker, Didier Drogba, heads to the Saputo Stadium for the first time.
MONTREAL – The Impact’s new star striker, Didier Drogba, greeted cheering fans at the Saputo Stadium Thursday.
Hundreds of season ticket holders packed the stadium to hear from the 37-year-old soccer star.
READ MORE: Didier Drogba arrives in Montreal, ready to play with Impact
“He’ll be a great leader, he has great energy, he’s really nice,” said Lena Sarr, who, like Drogba, is from the Ivory Coast.
“I’m sure he’s going to show them how to win, because he’s a winner.”
During his speech, Drogba told the crowd that Impact owner Joey Saputo was able to seduce him to Montreal by telling him about the many charms of the city.
The former Chelsea player said it was Montreal’s cultural diversity and French language that drew him in – and his presence is being felt.
READ MORE: Montreal Impact confirms signing ex-Chelsea star Didier Drogba
Since Drogba’s addition to the team was announced, ticket sales have jumped from 200 a day to 2,000.
The Montreal Impact won’t say whether Drogba will play at the next home game on August 5 and it’s been several months since the soccer legend has played professionally.
The humble star told reporters that he’s eager to learn from the other players.
“A superstar is only the way people look at you, but in the dressing room we are all the same,” he said.
The Montreal Impact signed Drogba to an 18 month contract, having had negotiated with the Chicago Fire as he was on their discovery list.
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