Toronto FC: Jonathan Osorio provides hope in a frustrating season
By Paul Taylor
Jonathan Osorio puts an end to speculation that he will move abroad, by signing a contract extension to remain with Toronto FC.
Wednesday night proved to be extremely disappointing for Toronto FC. Faced with the opportunity to climb to within three points of the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, they fell flat on their faces in a 2-0 loss to the Portland Timbers.
The following day, however, the Reds received a much-needed boost, with the news that Jonathan Osorio is not going anywhere. As reported by Sportsnet’s John Molinaro, he has signed a contract extension to remain in Toronto.
Terms of the deal are unknown at the time of writing. However, you can guarantee the 26-year-old will enjoy a significant pay rise from the guaranteed $209, 825 he is making this year.
The extension was just reward for Osorio, who is enjoying the best season of his MLS career to date. He has scored a career-high nine goals and has added five assists in 23 league games.
The midfielder particularly showed what he was capable of, during TFC’s run to the CONCACAF Champions League final. He tied for the tournament lead with four goals (along with teammate Sebastian Giovinco) and was named to the All-Star team.
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Osorio’s development since first playing for Toronto FC in 2013, has been a pleasure to witness. In all, he has scored 22 times and provided 26 assists in 164 MLS appearances, with another two goals in the playoffs.
From TFC’s point of view it was imperative to agree a new deal with the Toronto native, and not just because of how he has performed. His contract was set to conclude at the end of this season and there has been ongoing speculation about his future, with talk of him leaving to play abroad.
It will be interesting to discover how many years the extension is for. If Osorio does harbour ambitions to play abroad, the term of his new deal will play a significant factor.
For now though, TFC fans can celebrate the fact the Canadian international will be around for a while yet. Both this season and beyond, he will play a pivotal role in how successful the team is.
Next. Giovinco must accept playing conditions at BMO Field. dark
How important is Osorio to the Toronto FC cause? Do you expect him to remain in Southern Ontario long-term, or do you see him moving abroad sooner than later? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.