Toronto FC's rebuild: Fresh talent, new horizons

Toronto FC has undergone significant changes, with seven players departing from last year's roster. Notable exits include Michael Bradley, who retired after a decade with the club, opting for a coaching career elsewhere. The departures also feature goalkeeper Tomás Romero, defenders Cristián Gutiérrez and Themi Antonoglou, midfielders Franco Ibarra and Víctor Vázquez, and forward C.J. Sapong.

The team made strategic moves in the MLS SuperDraft, selecting Trinidad forward Tyrese Spicer as the first overall pick. Spicer, a 23-year-old from Lipscomb University, is expected to contribute on the wing or at wingback for TFC. Additionally, the draft brought in Indiana defender Joey Maher (30th overall), midfielder Patrick McDonald (59th), and Stanford midfielder Fletcher Bank (85th). However, McDonald and Bank have chosen to return to school.

Charlie Sharp, a third-round pick in the 2023 draft, is part of the camp after opting to return to Western Michigan last season. Sharp's impressive performance made him a MAC Hermann Trophy finalist, scoring 19 goals and providing eight assists for the Broncos.

The team's preseason preparations include a friendly against Nashville SC on Feb. 2 in Palm Beach before returning to Toronto. Subsequently, the squad will travel to California on Feb. 8 for the second half of camp, engaging in friendlies against Columbus Crew, Real Salt Lake, and Los Angeles FC, concluding with a return home on Feb. 17.

Coach Herdman emphasized the Florida camp's focus on physical preparation and fostering the club's culture by challenging the players. As the new season approaches, Toronto FC is gearing up for a transformative journey.