The 2024 season for Toronto FC, one of Major League Soccer’s (MLS) most storied franchises, ended in disappointment, leaving fans and management alike reflecting on what went wrong. After an offseason full of hope and expectation, the team failed to meet the high standards set in the past, ultimately finishing with one of their worst records in recent memory. With eyes now set firmly on 2025, Toronto FC is looking to rebuild, refocus, and revitalize its roster, aiming for a stronger showing in the coming season.
### A Season to Forget
Toronto FC’s 2024 campaign was marred by inconsistency, injuries, and a lack of cohesion both on and off the field. The team struggled to find a winning formula, finishing well outside of playoff contention. Key players, such as Lorenzo Insigne and Federico Bernardeschi, were unable to replicate the form they had shown in their first season with the club. This led to frustrations mounting within the team and among the fanbase, who had hoped for more after the team’s struggles in 2023.
While there were flashes of brilliance from certain individuals, particularly from Insigne when fit, the lack of a collective effort and organizational stability plagued the club. Toronto FC’s defensive issues continued to be a significant concern, with the team conceding too many goals and struggling to hold leads. Managerial changes, late-season injuries, and an overall lack of chemistry ultimately led to a season that never truly gained momentum.
### Struggling to Adapt
A key problem for Toronto FC in 2024 was its inability to adapt to the evolving nature of the league. With MLS becoming increasingly competitive and other teams improving their squads, Toronto FC struggled to maintain the level of excellence they had once been known for. The team’s failure to make a deep playoff run in 2024 highlighted the widening gap between themselves and other top clubs in the league.
The team’s defense, in particular, was a source of constant frustration. Despite attempts to bolster the backline, Toronto FC found themselves conceding far too many goals in crucial moments, particularly against high-pressure teams. The loss of defensive leaders and the inconsistent performances from the likes of Matt Hedges and Richie Laryea left the team exposed at the back.
The attacking side also proved to be inconsistent. Insigne, while a dynamic presence when healthy, struggled with injuries throughout the season, and Bernardeschi’s form dropped considerably. This left Toronto FC with a lack of attacking firepower, resulting in a reliance on younger players who were often not ready to shoulder the load.
### A Shift in Focus: Toronto FC’s Path to 2025
As disappointing as the 2024 season was, it has presented an opportunity for Toronto FC to reflect, reassess, and chart a new course forward. The upcoming 2025 season will be pivotal for the franchise, both in terms of player development and strategic decisions at the management level.
#### 1. **Rebuilding the Roster**
One of the key priorities for Toronto FC in the offseason will be rebuilding the squad, particularly focusing on areas where the team struggled most in 2024. A priority will be strengthening the defense, as the club cannot afford another season of weak performances at the back. Toronto FC will likely look to bring in new defensive reinforcements, possibly targeting experienced players in the MLS or exploring opportunities in the international market.
While Insigne and Bernardeschi remain the cornerstone pieces in attack, the team will need to address the issue of depth. Injuries to key players derailed the team’s momentum last season, and Toronto FC will need to ensure they have more reliable options off the bench in case of injury or fatigue. The club will likely pursue young, talented players who can make an impact, as well as seasoned veterans who can provide leadership and stability.
Additionally, the team may look to enhance its midfield depth. The partnership between Michael Bradley and Jonathan Osorio has been one of the team’s key assets over the years, but as Bradley ages, the club will need to find the next generation of midfielders to continue the club’s success. Developing youth from the academy will also be a focus, with players like Jayden Nelson and Luke Singh expected to take on more prominent roles in the future.
#### 2. **Managerial Stability**
Another area where Toronto FC will likely focus is managerial stability. With the coaching staff under scrutiny following the team’s poor season, the front office must ensure that the team’s next steps are in line with a clear vision. The club’s management will need to decide whether to keep the current coach or make a change, ensuring that whoever takes charge in 2025 is the right fit to bring the team back to its former glory.
There is a strong case for continuity under the right leadership, but any manager coming into the club needs to have a clear tactical approach, a knack for player development, and an ability to foster a competitive environment. Toronto FC’s previous successes have come with strong, cohesive leadership, and the team must find a manager capable of recapturing that unity.
#### 3. **Stronger Team Chemistry**
One of the most pressing needs for Toronto FC moving into 2025 is to establish better team chemistry. In 2024, the squad often looked disjointed, with communication and understanding breaking down in key moments. Building stronger bonds, improving tactical awareness, and fostering a unified team mentality will be crucial for any improvement in the 2025 season. A collective effort on both sides of the ball, combined with better leadership both on and off the field, could help Toronto return to being a playoff contender.
#### 4. **Fan Engagement and Community Support**
The franchise’s loyal fanbase remains one of Toronto FC’s strongest assets, but after a disappointing season, it’s important that the club re-engage with its supporters. The Toronto FC front office must prioritize fan outreach, ensuring that the supporters feel connected to the team through community events, fan forums, and a renewed focus on delivering exciting and winning soccer. A stronger relationship between the team and the city can only help the players on the field.
### Conclusion
While 2024 may have been a season to forget for Toronto FC, the team’s focus has already shifted to 2025. Rebuilding the roster, establishing managerial stability, fostering team chemistry, and re-engaging with fans are all essential steps for the club as they aim to restore their position as one of the top teams in MLS. With the right moves in the offseason, Toronto FC could quickly bounce back and make 2025 a season of redemption.