Toronto FC: How Does Victor Vazquez Fit into the Team?
By Paul Taylor
With the signing of Victor Vazquez, expect to see him go straight into the starting XI for Toronto FC, as an attacking midfielder.
Toronto FC finally go their man. As reported by Sportsnet’s Jon Molinaro, the Reds have signed Victor Vazquez.
With the acquisition, TFC’s search for an attacking midfielder comes to a satisfactory conclusion. Vazquez is already in Florida with the team, but will not be added to the roster until he receives his Canadian work permit and International Transfer Certificate.
Toronto FC completed the deal by using Target Allocation Money. As a result, the 30-year old will make more than the league maximum of $480,625, but won’t count as a designated player.
Vazquez is projected to go straight into the starting lineup. He will bring more creativity to the midfield, while linking up with Sebastian Giovinco in attack.
Speaking about the signing, TFC’s general manager Tim Bezbatchenko said:
"“We are excited to bring Victor Vázquez to Toronto FC and provide our team with another experienced midfielder. Victor developed in the Barcelona youth system which is recognized worldwide. He is a creative player with experience playing in an attacking midfield role but also centrally which gives us flexibility in our system. He will be a welcomed addition to our club.”"
Vazquez’s most successful spell came during four seasons with Club Brugge. He made 140 total appearances and was named Belgian Professional Footballer of the Year, after the 2014-15 campaign.
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Despite his position as an attacking midfielder, do not count on the Spanish native to add much as a scoring threat. Dating back to the 2005-06 season, he has a total of just 35 goals.
Regardless, Vazquez should still prove to be an excellent addition to the team, with his ability to set up others. This is best illustrated by the 50 assists he had during his time in Belgium.
As pointed out by Molinaro, Jay Chapman is the player most likely to be impacted by the arrival of Vazquez. Despite showing promise before getting injured last season, Chapman will now mostly be used as a substitute.
Next: 4 Questions for the 2017 Season
What is your initial take on the signing of Vazquez? What sort of impact do you expect him to have in the TFC lineup? Share your thoughts in the comments section.