Toronto FC Will Be Actively Seeking a Striker for the 2025 Season
• The search for a striker puts Prince Owusu and Deandre Kerr's roles in question
• John Herdman appears likely to stay in charge of the club
By Oscar Cortes
Toronto FC has entered a critical period of evaluation following the 2024 season, where a significant lack of finishing ability in front of goal proved costly. The team struggled with poor goal-scoring efficiency, a key reason they ended up as one of the lowest-scoring sides in the MLS Eastern Conference, with only 40 goals.
This outcome was a major setback, especially considering the squad’s star power. With a club rebuild on the horizon, Toronto FC plans to make impactful signings during the off-season, including the acquisition of a decisive striker.
READ MORE: The Uncertainty for Toronto FC Next Season
General Manager Jason Hernandez on Toronto FC's Priorities
The Toronto FC front office sounded the alarm after the team failed to qualify for the MLS playoffs, marking a tough moment for the club. Determined to bounce back, Toronto aims to reaffirm its status as one of the league’s top teams.
General Manager Jason Hernandez has highlighted the urgent need to strengthen the roster, especially by bringing in a reliable striker. Additionally, the team is looking to bolster other critical areas, particularly the defense, to establish a more resilient foundation.
"The decisions we’ve made through the 2024 season was to prepare for an addition in the attack in 2025… we’re right now working on evaluating how we want to attack that problem."
- Jason Hernandez
The Herdman-Led Project Moving Forward
Head coach John Herdman is expected to remain at the helm as Toronto FC moves forward, working to build a cohesive playing identity that can make the team a feared opponent across the MLS. Key stars like Federico Bernardeschi and Lorenzo Insigne are also likely to stay, contributing their experience to both short-term and long-term goals.
However, with their age, they are more susceptible to injuries, which the team must carefully manage. As Toronto FC refines its vision for 2025, there are high expectations that the revamped squad will showcase its potential under Herdman’s guidance when the new season begins.