Toronto FC Embarks on Major Rebuild by Declining Player Contracts

Toronto FC is making significant changes as it begins a complete overhaul of its roster, parting ways with defenders Aime Mabika and Shane O’Neill, midfielder Brandon Servania, and goalkeeper Greg Ranjitsingh by not renewing their contract options for 2025. The decision comes after a lackluster performance last season, where the four players collectively earned US$1.24 million, with Servania being the highest earner among them.

The future of Prince Owusu, who was Toronto's top scorer with nine goals this past season, remains uncertain as his contract status is still under evaluation. The forward, who joined the team in August 2023 from the German second division, was the fifth highest-paid player on the roster. Toronto FC's General Manager, Jason Hernandez, emphasized the need to strengthen the club's offense, acknowledging that the decisions made during the 2024 season aimed to set the stage for improvements in the attack for 2025.

Toronto finished the previous season at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings, failing to secure a playoff spot for the fourth consecutive year. The club's poor performance was highlighted by its lack of scoring, trailing only behind three other teams in goal tally. MLSE's president and CEO, Keith Pelley, noted that a complete rebuild is necessary, stating that the team currently lacks a clear identity and ethos.

While the club has retained options for some players, including goalkeeper Luka Gavran and several young defenders and midfielders, many others, including designated players Insigne and Bernardeschi, are already secured for the 2025 season. With more than double the salary cap space available compared to last year, Toronto is in a position to attract a high-profile player, especially with the reduction of inefficient contracts.

The club can also utilize the "U-22 Initiative" to enhance its roster flexibility, allowing for additional young players without significantly impacting its salary budget. Toronto has until November 27 to finalize its decisions regarding Owusu and defender Luke Singh, and ongoing discussions are anticipated with players who had their options declined. Hernandez mentioned the potential for a renegotiated deal for Owusu as well as the assessment of interest from other teams.

Several other players are also part of the roster evaluation, including Servania, who recently returned from injury but faced challenges throughout the season. The ongoing restructuring includes identifying young talent to build a more competitive team moving forward, with Hernandez planning end-of-year discussions with players and agents soon. The first-team roster will also see the addition of Lazar Stefanovic, an 18-year-old defender who recently officially joined the team after recovering from a foot injury.