Toronto FC: Richie Laryea’s career goes from strength to strength

Richie Laryea received some well-deserved good news, as Toronto FC signed the Canadian international defender to a new contract.

Toronto FC are getting ready for the resumption of the MLS 2020 season and at least one of their players will now be even more motivated to perform well. The player in question is Richie Laryea.

As confirmed by the Toronto FC Communications department, the club has signed Laryea to a new contract. Club policy means the terms of the deal have not been disclosed, but what we do know is it will be a considerable increase from the US$56,250 he earned last year.

What we also know is the new deal is thoroughly deserved for the Toronto, Ontario native. Ever since he joined his hometown team for the 2019 season, he has worked hard and impressed a lot of people.

Laryea made 28 combined appearances for TFC last season, which included 16 regular season starts as well as two goals and a couple of assists. He certainly played his part in helping the club make it to the MLS Cup Final, with four substitute appearances in the playoffs and one of his two goals.

What made Laryea’s performances even more impressive, was that he was a midfielder prior to joining the Reds. However, head coach Greg Vanney made the decision to move him to right back and he adapted well.

In fact, Laryea adapted so well that he earned his first call-up to the Canadian men’s national team in August last year. He made his senior team debut in September and has earned six caps in total.

It was always clear the 25-year-old had potential, hence why he was picked seventh overall in the 2016 MLS draft by Orlando City SC. However, things didn’t quite go as planned, with Orlando declining his contract option following the 2018 season.

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As the saying goes though, when one door closes, another one opens. After impressing in a preseason trial with TFC, Laryea has since gone from strength to strength.

Laryea would probably admit at one time he didn’t see himself as a defender. However, be opening to this has led to the opportunity to return home, play international football and now be rewarded with a new contract.

As you’d expect, TFC are looking forward to seeing Laryea continue to grow and enjoy a hugely successful career. As per the communications department, General Manger Ali Curtis said:

"“Off the field, Richie’s character and personality is tremendous. He earned this new contract in many ways, and we are excited for he, his family, and what he will bring to TFC moving forward.”"

Laryea was already off to a good start in 2020, appearing in both regular season games and scoring a goal before the season was suspended. There is every reason to believe he will continue to impress when the season resumes in Florida on July 8.

What is your opinion of Laryea’s Toronto FC career to date? What in particular impresses you about the Canadian international? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.