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Toronto FC: 2017 Season Preview

By Mark Shannon

Dec 10, 2016; Toronto, Canada; A large banner is displayed prior to the MLS Cup between Toronto FC and Seattle Sounders at BMO Field. Seattle defeated Toronto on penalty kicks. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 10, 2016; Toronto, Canada; A large banner is displayed prior to the MLS Cup between Toronto FC and Seattle Sounders at BMO Field. Seattle defeated Toronto on penalty kicks. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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2016 ended in disappointment for Toronto FC after losing the MLS Cup on penalties. So their looking for redemption in 2017.

Justin Morrow steps up to the penalty spot, lines up to take the shot and HE…….HITS THE CROSSBAR!!!! And that’s the heartbreak Toronto FC fans will remember most about last season. The shot that could have changed it all.

Consequently Seattle would convert on their next penalty, and win the 2016 MLS Cup. While that was heartbreaking the Reds will be looking for redemption this season.

Oct 26, 2016; Toronto, CANADA; Toronto FC defender Justin Morrow (2) and midfielder Jonathan Osorio (21) and midfielder Michael Bradley (4) celebrate a goal by forward Sebastian Giovinco (left) during the first half against the Philadelphia Union at BMO Field. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 26, 2016; Toronto, CANADA; Toronto FC defender Justin Morrow (2) and midfielder Jonathan Osorio (21) and midfielder Michael Bradley (4) celebrate a goal by forward Sebastian Giovinco (left) during the first half against the Philadelphia Union at BMO Field. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports /

A Recap of Toronto FC’s 2016

Record: 14-9-11

Finishing Position: 5th by MLS, 3rd in Eastern Conference

Post-Season: MLS Cup Finalists

After a long wait, in 2015 Toronto made their first playoff appearance. So in 2016 much more was to be expected, and they delivered. While they battled a little bit of inconsistency throughout the season, Toronto went on a run to the MLS Cup Final. But losing to the Seattle Sounders on penalty shots at BMO Field.

Offence isn’t an issue when you have the likes of Sebastian Giovinco and Jozy Altidore roaming the pitch. While the team scored 51 goals last season, it was a step down from the previous year. Toronto finished the season with 53 points, a franchise best, and their second straight playoff appearance.

Transfers out

  • Will Johnson (Orlando City FC – Free Transfer)
  • Damien Perquis ( Nottingham Forrest – Free Transfer)
  • Mark Bloom (Atlanta United – Trade)
  • Josh Williams (Columbus Crew – Draft)
  • Daniel Lovitz (Free Agent)
Dec 10, 2016; Toronto, Canada; Toronto FC midfielder Armando Cooper (31) plays the ball against Seattle Sounders forward Nelson Haedo Valdez (16) during the first half in the 2016 MLS Cup at BMO Field. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 10, 2016; Toronto, Canada; Toronto FC midfielder Armando Cooper (31) plays the ball against Seattle Sounders forward Nelson Haedo Valdez (16) during the first half in the 2016 MLS Cup at BMO Field. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports /

Transfers in

While keeping basically the same team in tact from 2016 Toronto FC, just added more talent to an already potent lineup. An attacking option and another defender were key areas that needed to be addressed and they did that.

  • Victor Vazquez (Cruz Azul – Free Transfer)
  • Sergio Camargo (Syracuse – Superdraft)
  • Brandon Aubrey (Norte Dame – Superdraft)
  • Armando Cooper (Toronto FC – Permanent deal)
  • Chris Mavinga (Rubin Kazan – Free Transfer)

Predicting the Toronto FC’s starting XI for opening weekend

After making it all the way to the MLS Cup Final, there shouldn’t be many changes. With the additions of Vazquez and Mavinga, Vanney has a few options at his disposal. They should line up in their 3-5-2 formation from last season

2017 Predictions

After a very successful 2016 many fans are hoping for a repeat. If Altidore can play a full season and repeat his playoff performance, then Toronto FC is in for a good season. The addition of Vazquez will prove to be the missing piece. Toronto finishes tops in the Eastern Conference. And they make it all the way to the MLS Cup again!

Predicted Finish: 1st in the Eastern Conference

Next: Winningest Franchises in MLS History

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