Toronto FC: Predicted starting XI for 2020 season

TORONTO, ON - MARCH 29: Alejandro Pozuelo (10) of Toronto FC celebrates after scoring his first Toronto FC goal with teammates Jonathan Osorio (21), Jozy Altidore (17) and Chris Mavinga (23) during the second half of the MLS regular season match between Toronto FC and New York City FC on March 29, 2019, at BMO Field in Toronto, ON, Canada. (Photo by Julian Avram/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
TORONTO, ON - MARCH 29: Alejandro Pozuelo (10) of Toronto FC celebrates after scoring his first Toronto FC goal with teammates Jonathan Osorio (21), Jozy Altidore (17) and Chris Mavinga (23) during the second half of the MLS regular season match between Toronto FC and New York City FC on March 29, 2019, at BMO Field in Toronto, ON, Canada. (Photo by Julian Avram/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
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Toronto FC, Nick de Leon
TORONTO, ON – MARCH 29: Jozy Altidore (17) of Toronto FC celebrates his goal with Nick DeLeon (18) of Toronto FC during the first half of the MLS regular season match between Toronto FC and New York City FC on March 29, 2019, at BMO Field in Toronto, ON, Canada. (Photo by Julian Avram/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Attack

Center-forward might be the most obvious position to predict, injuries aside. Jozy Altidore is Toronto FC’s striking talisman, when fit. The only question with Altidore is if he can stay healthy. If he can’t, Ayo Akinola or Patrick Mullins will likely take his spot as the clubs starting striker.

In at left-wing is new DP Pablo Piatti. The often injured left-midfielder/winger will be Toronto’s go-to option because, you know, he’s a DP and they have a lot invested in him. There is reason to be skeptical about the transfer. Piatti is the wrong side of 30 and has struggled extensively with injuries. Can he start regularly in the physically demanding MLS? Piatti is the starter, but should he miss time, Jacob Shaffleburg, Ifunanyachi Achara, or Nick DeLeon to come into the lineup.

At right-wing, Erickson Gallardo will most likely slot into the lineup. His pace is a massive boost to a relatively slow team and he’s still young. Vanney likes his direct running and strong movement off the ball, and with Nicolas Benezet out the door, the wing position has opened up.

All in all, Greg Vanney has many options to choose from. Now he just has to put together the right pieces in the right place and hope everything fits together.