Toronto FC is making significant roster changes as it gears up for the 2025 MLS season. The club has managed to secure the services of defender Zane Monlouis from Arsenal, marking what could be a pivotal move to strengthen their backline which struggled considerably last season.
On February 23, 2025, Toronto FC announced the transfer of Monlouis, 21, who has signed a deal running through 2026, with options extending to 2028. The young Englishman has had experience with Arsenal's U-21 squad and the youth national teams of England, but he never made it to the first team at the Premier League club. Despite this, his time at Arsenal has equipped him with the technical skills needed to make his mark on American soccer.
General Manager Jason Hernandez expressed enthusiasm about Monlouis joining the squad. "We’re excited to bring Zane in to bolster our defense. Hecomes from one of the best clubs in Europe and has attributesthat could fit wellinto our tactical system," Hernandez stated. This move is seen as part of Toronto's effort to rebuild after conceding 61 goals last season, making their defense one of the weakest aspects of the team.
Monlouis's signing is just one of the steps Toronto FC is taking to improve its performance and aim for consistency throughout the season. The pressure will be on the young defender to adapt quickly to the tempo and physicality of Major League Soccer, contrasting with the style of play he experienced back home in England. With the need to avoid repeating last season's errors, Monlouis’s integration and development will be closely observed by fans and the coaching staff alike.
On the flip side, not all news surrounding the team is positive. Reports indicate Lorenzo Insigne, who was the second-highest paid player in MLS last season, did not travel with Toronto FC for their opening match against D.C. United. Insigne's exclusion from the team's plans for 2025 reflects the club's strategic shift to create space for new talent and possibly tighten its budget.
The Italian winger was expected to be a central figure for Toronto FC following his high-profile signing. His absence raises questions about the club's direction and the rationale behind moving forward without such a prominent player. Insigne's reported exclusion may be tied to his hefty salary, leading Toronto FC to prioritize roster flexibility and the need for younger talent.
This dual approach of bolstering the squad with fresh, young prospects like Monlouis, alongside making tough decisions about existing high-salary players, reflects the club's ambition to reset its course for the future. Supporters are hopeful these changes will yield the consistency and improvements necessary to compete effectively this season.
Overall, Toronto FC’s roster overhaul points toward a significant change of strategy, focusing on rejuvenation and resilience. Players and coaching staff alike will be under immense pressure to capitalize on these new opportunities and rectify the shortcomings of previous seasons. With the commencement of the 2025 season, all eyes will be on how these changes manifest on the pitch and whether the club can reclaim its stature within Major League Soccer.