The Halifax Wanderers confirmed on Wednesday that the club has exercised its option on Isaiah Johnston's contract for the 2027 Canadian Premier League season. Johnston, 24, signed a two-year contract with Halifax ahead of the 2025 CPL season, which included a club option for 2027. The Wanderers have triggered that club option, retaining one of the CPL’s top players for next season.
“Isaiah had a fantastic season and grew immensely in a role that had him playing closer to the opposition goal,” Wanderers head coach and general manager Vanni Sartini said. “He also stepped up as a leader and earned his position as one of our captains. His play, effort and passionate leadership was consistent all season and his experience is important to our team. Isaiah is a proud representative of the club and we’re excited to have him back next season.”
Johnston had a breakout year in 2026, leading Halifax with 11 goals and two assists in 27 league matches. The midfielder from Toronto was named the club’s Player of the Year and saw his role grow throughout the season. Along with becoming a focal point in the Wanderers’ attack, Johnston was named one of the club's captains.
Across two seasons with the Wanderers, Johnston has totalled 13 goals and five assists, while adding his incredible energy and competitiveness to Halifax’s midfield. He was acquired by the club in a transfer from Loudoun United in the USL Championship and previously played in the CPL for York United (now Inter Toronto).
“Since last season, Halifax has been home and it’s been special to build a life and a family here so I am looking forward to being back and to continue representing Halifax,” Johnston said. “The fans have been so receptive to me and it’s just been such an amazing experience. This year did a lot for my confidence and I’ll take that into next year and continue trying to better myself and be better for the team. I don’t think we fulfilled the potential this group has to deliver more for our fans on the pitch.”
Johnston has a reputation as one of the best players in the CPL’s history. During his time at York, he was named to the CPL’s top 50 players list, credited for his ability to dictate the tempo in the midfield before being purchased and named the first-ever signing of MLS Next Pro side Huntsville City FC in 2022. With over 150 matches of professional experience under his belt, Johnston has scored 21 goals and tallied 12 assists so far in his career.