Toronto FC Squad 2025: Roster, Transfers & Season Preview

Toronto FC (TFC) heads into the 2025 Major League Soccer season with a revamped lineup and high hopes. After a dismal 2023 campaign in which the Reds finished last in MLS with a club-record low 22 points, the club has aggressively rebuilt the squad. The 2025 roster blends veteran leadership, international stars, and up-and-coming Canadian talent. Below we break down the Toronto FC Squad 2025 – from player signings and departures to tactical setup and how the team stacks up among Canada’s MLS clubs.

Table of Contents

TFC is one of three Canadian teams in MLS (alongside CF Montréal and the Vancouver Whitecaps), so its squad moves are closely watched by Canadian soccer fans. In this preview we’ll cover the full roster, key player stats, transfer news, likely formations, and season outlook for Toronto FC. Let’s dive into the 2025 Toronto FC roster, formation ideas, and what fans can expect from the team’s lineup this year.

Toronto FC 2025 Roster Overview

The 2025 Toronto FC roster blends experienced veterans with promising youth. The lineup features 28 players: 3 goalkeepers, 10 defenders, 8 midfielders, and 7 forwards. Notable figures include Canadian internationals Richie Laryea and Jonathan Osorio, and Designated Players Lorenzo Insigne and Federico Bernardeschi. The squad also welcomes new signings and homegrown talents.

Goalkeepers

#1 Sean Johnson (USA) – Veteran goalkeeper with extensive MLS experience (first-choice keeper).
#77 Adisa De Rosario (CAN) – 20-year-old homegrown goalkeeper (son of Raúl De Rosario) newly promoted to the first team.
#90 Luka Gavran (CAN) – Young Canadian keeper who impressed in 2024 and signed an extension through 2027.

Defenders

#2 Henry Wingo (USA) – Dynamic wing-back/defender returning from previous seasons.
#5 Kevin Long (IRL) – Veteran center-back brought in for leadership.
#12 Zane Monlouis (ENG/JAM) – 21-year-old defender signed from Arsenal’s academy to bolster the back line.
#15 Nickseon Gomis (FRA) – French center-back with good aerial ability.
#17 Sigurd Rosted (NOR) – 30-year-old Norwegian center-back (returning to the club).
#19 Kobe Franklin (CAN) – Versatile young defender from Toronto’s academy.
#22 Richie Laryea (CAN) – Team captain and right wing-back; key leader on and off the pitch.
#28 Raoul Petretta (ITA) – Italian left-back known for forward runs and experience from Europe.
#75 Reid Fisher (USA) – 21-year-old center-back drafted in December 2024.
#76 Lazar Stefanovic (CAN) – 18-year-old homegrown center-back who earned a first-team contract through 2028.

Midfielders

#6 Kosi Thompson (CAN) – 20-year-old homegrown midfielder with high upside.
#20 Deybi Flores (HON) – Honduran holding midfielder known for passing range.
#8 Matty Longstaff (ENG) – Creative English midfielder on loan (formerly of Newcastle).
#21 Jonathan Osorio (CAN) – Veteran Canadian international midfielder; chipped in with 4 goals in 2023.
#11 Derrick Etienne Jr. (HAI) – Haitian midfielder with attacking instincts.
#23 Maxime Dominguez (CHE) – Swiss-born central midfielder signed on loan from Vasco da Gama (loan with purchase option).
#14 Alonso Coello (ESP) – Spanish central midfielder; re-signed to a new deal through 2027.
#71 Markus Cimermancic (CAN) – 19-year-old homegrown midfielder promoted from TFC II through 2026.

Forwards

#7 Theo Corbeanu (CAN) – Canadian forward acquired on loan from Granada for 2025.
#18 Hugo Mbongue (CAN) – Young forward (loaned to USL side Lexington SC for 2025).
#9 Ola Brynhildsen (NOR) – Norwegian winger signed on loan from Midtjylland (with an option).
#24 Lorenzo Insigne (ITA) – Italian national team forward, Designated Player known for creativity and set-pieces.
#10 Federico Bernardeschi (ITA) – Italian World Cup winner and Designated Player; expected to lead the attack despite a modest 5 goals in 2023.
#29 Deandre Kerr (CAN) – Homegrown Canadian striker; scored 5 goals in 2023 and poised for a bigger role.
#16 Tyrese Spicer (JAM) – Young Jamaican forward gaining first-team experience.
#? Cassius Mailula (ZAF) – South African striker signed on loan from Wydad Casablanca; will add depth to the forward line.

This depth chart shows a mix of international stars (Insigne, Bernardeschi), returning veterans (Laryea, Osorio), young Canadians (Thompson, Kerr), and promising signings (Monlouis, Brynhildsen). Toronto’s squad reflects a blend of attacking flair and defensive reinforcement. The club has aimed for balance – for example, adding Zane Monlouis in defense and Ola Brynhildsen in attack – to cover all areas of the field.

Transfers and Roster Moves

Toronto FC made several 2025 transfer moves and contract updates. Key transactions include:

Zane Monlouis (Arsenal) – Signed on a 2-year contract through 2026 (with options) from Arsenal’s youth setup.
Maxime Dominguez (Vasco da Gama) – Acquired on a season-long loan (with purchase option) from the Brazilian club.
Ola Brynhildsen (FC Midtjylland) – Added on loan until Dec. 2025 (loan with option), bringing a Norwegian international to TFC’s attack.
Theo Corbeanu (Granada CF) – Loaned from Spain for the 2025 MLS season (Canadian forward).
Lazar Stefanovic (TFC II) – Signed as a homegrown player through 2028 (club option 2029).
Markus Cimermancic (TFC II) – Signed as a homegrown player through 2026 (with options).
Adisa De Rosario (TFC II) – Promoted to first team as a homegrown player through 2026.
Luka Gavran (goalkeeper) – Contract extended through 2027 (club option 2028).
Alonso Coello (midfielder) – Contract extended through 2027 (club option 2028).

On the departure side:

Thiago Andrade (Brazil) – Transferred to Cerezo Osaka (Japan) on Jan 13, 2025.
Brandon Servania (USA) – Midfielder moved to D.C. United on a free transfer (Feb 2025).
Hugo Mbongue (CAN) – Loaned to USL side Lexington SC for the 2025 season.
Prince Owusu (GHA) – TFC traded the right of first refusal to CF Montréal (for allocation money) and he signed in Montreal.

These moves show TFC’s strategy of using Targeted Allocation Money and General Allocation Money to add talent, while also offloading or loaning out surplus players. For example, the Brynhildsen deal used TAM. The net effect is a refreshed squad with both international signings and promoted youth, and cap flexibility for 2025.

Key Players and Team Depth

Several Toronto FC players stand out as must-watch for 2025:

Lorenzo Insigne (Forward, #24): The Italian star and former Napoli captain returns from injury determined. He scored 5 goals in 2023 and brings world-class creativity and set-piece skill.
Federico Bernardeschi (Forward, #10): Joined in 2022 from Juventus. In 2023 he struggled to justify his high salary, combining for 9 goals+assists with Insigne. He has publicly recommitted to TFC and will look to boost his output.
Jonathan Osorio (Midfield, #21): Club legend and Canadian international. A consistent playmaker, he tallied 4 goals in 2023 and provides leadership in midfield.
Richie Laryea (Defender, #22): Team captain and Canadian national team right-back. A tireless runner, Laryea anchors the defense and also contributes assists from the flanks.
Deandre Kerr (Forward, #29): Homegrown striker who emerged in 2023 (5 goals in 23 games). Kerr’s finishing ability will be crucial if Insigne/Bernardeschi face injuries.
Kosi Thompson (Midfielder, #6): Promising 20-year-old and son of former TFC player Derek Thompson. He had a breakout run late in 2023 and is a key piece for the future.
Derrick Etienne Jr. (Midfield, #11): Haitian international with 5 goals in 2023; provides pace and scoring from midfield.
Kevin Long (Defender, #5): Veteran center-back signed in 2023; chip in aerial threats (he scored a few goals on set-pieces).
Matty Longstaff (Midfield, #8): Creative loanee (from Newcastle) who adds attacking flair when healthy.

In goal, Sean Johnson (USA, #1) remains the starter. Backup Luka Gavran (#90) and youth Adisa De Rosario (#77) are promising. Gavran’s new contract through 2027 shows the club’s confidence in him.

Overall, the squad has playmakers (Insigne, Bernardeschi, Osorio), goal-scorers (Kerr, Insigne), and defensive leaders (Laryea, Rosted). However, as analysts note, Toronto’s two big signings delivered a combined 9 goals/assists in 2023 – not quite enough by themselves. The hope is that the revamped roster (and full fitness) will yield more balanced contributions.

Tactical Formation and Coaching

Toronto FC’s preferred formation and tactics will be a key storyline in 2025. In early 2024, coach John Herdman implemented a three-centerback system (often a 3-4-2-1 shape), relying on wing-backs like Laryea and Wingo to provide width. That setup helped solidify the defense – TFC went three games without conceding in early 2024 – but Herdman has since departed. In January 2025, Herdman announced he was resigning as head coach, leaving the club searching for a successor.

Until a new coach is appointed, Toronto’s players will prepare under the interim staff. It is expected the Reds will continue using wide players heavily (a nod to the “soccer squad” depth on the flanks) and possibly retain the back-three approach or switch to a more traditional 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1. The presence of Insigne and Bernardeschi suggests a flexible attack – they can play as wide midfielders, a two-cam pairing, or supporting striker. Fans can anticipate a system that maximizes pace (Laryea) and skill (Insigne) on the wings, along with one or two holding midfielders (Dominguez, Osorio).

In summary, the 2025 TFC formation will likely revolve around: wing-backs/wingers in wide areas, a pair of creative forwards/attacking mids (Insigne/Bernardeschi), and a reinforced backline with Long, Monlouis, Rosted, etc. We will watch closely for the next coach’s approach, but given the roster, expect the team to emphasize wide play and midfield control, building on the framework Herdman began.

Canadian MLS Context

Within Canadian soccer, Toronto FC’s 2025 roster must be viewed alongside its Canadian MLS rivals. Along with TFC, MLS features only two other Canadian clubs: CF Montréal and Vancouver Whitecaps. Toronto has historically had the largest payroll (with DP signings from Europe), while Montréal and Vancouver often blend more local and budget-minded picks. In 2025, the revamped TFC squad gives Toronto an edge in star power, but it still needs results to match those rivals.

The Canadian Championship (Voyageurs Cup) pits these teams directly against each other, and TFC will hope the new signings tip the balance in their favor. For example, TFC’s addition of international players like Brynhildsen contrasts with Montréal’s focus on developing their own academy stars. Fans and analysts will be watching how Toronto FC, as Canada’s most decorated MLS club, competes against Montreal’s up-and-coming squad and Vancouver’s solid veterans. The expectation is that stronger signings will help TFC regain national bragging rights and improve on past struggles in the Canadian soccer scene.

Season Outlook and Expectations

Looking ahead to 2025, Toronto FC aims to rebound from recent lows and make a playoff push. The improvements to the Toronto FC roster 2025 suggest higher ambitions than just another bottom-table finish. Veteran leadership (Laryea, Osorio) and new talents (Dominguez, Monlouis, Brynhildsen) give the team more options. If Insigne and Bernardeschi stay healthy and clicking (they pledged commitment for next year), TFC can contend for more than just pride.

Realistically, most pundits expect Toronto to climb at least into the middle of the Eastern Conference standings. Key early season fixtures (against rivals and conference foes) will indicate if the changes are paying off. The search for a new coach adds uncertainty – a strong tactical mind will be needed to marry all the pieces.

For fans, the 2025 season is a chance to reset. “We plan to do better next season,” Insigne vowed after 2023. The revamped Toronto FC lineup offers hope that the Reds can challenge for playoff qualification for the first time in years. Of course, much will depend on consistency and how well the squad jells. But one thing is clear: the Toronto FC Squad 2025 is stronger on paper, and supporters will be looking for positive results from Toronto’s Canadian stars and new signings alike.

Conclusion

Toronto FC’s 2025 season will be defined by new faces, tactical shifts, and a hunger to improve. The Toronto FC Squad 2025 blends experienced internationals (Insigne, Bernardeschi), Canadian mainstays (Laryea, Osorio), and exciting youth talent. Key additions like Zane Monlouis and Ola Brynhildsen strengthen weak spots, while homegrown talents step up to challenge.

If Toronto can harness this talent and adapt to their tactical system, the team should perform better than in recent years. Fans should keep an eye on roster updates and coach announcements as the season approaches.

Be sure to share this analysis with fellow fans and let us know your thoughts. Follow the latest Toronto FC news and MLS coverage for more updates. Leave a comment below with your predictions for the Toronto FC 2025 squad – we want to hear if you think the Reds can turn things around!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who are the key signings in the Toronto FC 2025 roster?
A: Toronto FC’s big 2025 signings include defender Zane Monlouis (from Arsenal’s U21 program) and forwards like Ola Brynhildsen (on loan from FC Midtjylland) and Theo Corbeanu (loan from Granada). The club also added midfielder Maxime Dominguez on loan and promoted homegrown players Lazar Stefanovic and Markus Cimermancic to first-team deals.

Q: Which players left Toronto FC after 2024?
A: Notable departures include winger Thiago Andrade (transferred to Cerezo Osaka), midfielder Brandon Servania (to D.C. United on a free transfer), and forward Hugo Mbongue (loaned to USL’s Lexington SC for 2025). Also, TFC traded away the first-refusal rights to forward Prince Owusu in a deal with Montréal. These moves freed up salary cap space and roster spots for the new signings.

Q: Who are the standout players to watch on the 2025 squad?
A: Veterans like Lorenzo Insigne and Federico Bernardeschi will draw eyes – they are expected to lead the attack and have a combined 9 goals+assists in 2023. Richie Laryea (captain, Canadian national team) and Jonathan Osorio (midfielder) provide leadership. Promising young players such as Deandre Kerr (5 goals in 2023) and Kosi Thompson will also be key contributors. Goalkeeper Sean Johnson brings experience, while new defenders (Monlouis, Rosted) aim to stabilize the back line.

Q: What formation or tactics will Toronto FC use in 2025?
A: In early 2024, TFC played a 3-4-2-1 formation with three centerbacks and wing-backs. With head coach John Herdman’s departure, it’s unclear if the new coach will keep that system. Expect a variation of a wing-back formation (using Richie Laryea and Henry Wingo) and two attacking midfielders behind a forward, or possibly a switch to a 4-2-3-1. The tactics will likely emphasize width and creativity, given the roster’s strengths.

Q: Who will coach Toronto FC in 2025?
A: John Herdman resigned as head coach in January 2025. As of now, Toronto FC is searching for his successor. An interim staff will guide the preseason and early 2025, and fans are watching for the official appointment. The new coach will inherit a more talented roster and will need to implement a style that leverages both the offensive firepower and the enhanced defensive depth.

Q: How does Toronto FC compare to other Canadian MLS teams in 2025?
A: Alongside CF Montréal and the Vancouver Whitecaps (the other Canadian MLS clubs), Toronto FC has traditionally spent the most on international stars. For 2025, TFC’s roster upgrades give it an edge in star power, but on-field performance will determine superiority. All three Canadian teams have the goal of reaching the playoffs and winning the Canadian Championship. Toronto’s added depth means it should be a stronger contender against Montréal and Vancouver in 2025, both for national titles and for playoff spots.