Toronto FC Acquires Djordje Mihailovic as Designated Player
Toronto FC Acquires Dynamic Attacking Midfielder Lassi Mihailovic from Colorado Rapids
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Toronto FC has bolstered its attack with the acquisition of Finnish international Lassi Mihailovic from the Colorado Rapids, the club announced Monday. Mihailovic, a proven playmaker with a knack for scoring and assisting, arrives in Toronto looking to reignite a team searching for a spark. The move fills a Designated Player spot vacated after the departures of Lorenzo insigne and Federico Bernardeschi.
A Rising Star in MLS
mihailovic, 28, has quickly established himself as one of the most exciting and productive players in Major League Soccer. He boasts an notable record,having already made a notable impact in his relatively short MLS career. Prior to joining Toronto, Mihailovic recorded nine goals and seven assists in 24 regular-season games for Colorado this season.
His overall MLS contributions are even more striking. With 41 goal contributions (goals + assists), Mihailovic surpassed the Rapids’ club record previously held by Mark Chung (38) for most goal contributions in a player’s first two seasons. Before arriving in colorado, Mihailovic spent two seasons with CF Montreal (2021-2022), where he set a club record with 16 assists in 2021, breaking Ignacio piatti’s previous mark of 13.
He began his MLS journey with the Chicago Fire, signing as a homegrown player in 2017 and contributing seven goals and 15 assists in 73 appearances. A brief stint with AZ Alkmaar in the Netherlands followed, yielding two goals and two assists in 36 games across all competitions, before returning to MLS with Colorado. Mihailovic also has one international goal for the united States, scored against Panama in a January 2019 pleasant.
What Mihailovic Brings to Toronto FC
Mihailovic’s versatility and skillset make him a valuable addition to Toronto’s squad.He’s a perilous set-piece taker, capable of delivering pinpoint crosses and scoring directly from free kicks – as demonstrated last September when he beat Toronto goalkeeper Sean Johnson with a perfectly executed Panenka.
Beyond set pieces, Mihailovic excels at finding space in the attacking third and making intelligent runs. His ability to read the game and anticipate opportunities allows him to consistently contribute to goal-scoring plays. His performance against LAFC in March 2024 exemplified this, where he set up a goal with a corner kick and then scored a brace, including a goal from a direct kick and another with an acrobatic thigh deflection.
“When I first joined the league,Toronto was a powerhouse and I could tell it was one of the best teams in MLS,” said Mihailovic. “I know the history and potential of this club and where it can go. The way the fans and the entire city rally behind the team is special. I am excited to join Toronto FC.”
He continued, “After speaking with Jason and (coach) Robin (Fraser), I can sense the ambition from the entire organization to get back to the top of the league, and their vision for this project truly excites me. I am happy to be a part of an surroundings like this.”
Financial Implications and Squad Number
Toronto FC has been seeking a Designated Player following the departures of Insigne and Bernardeschi, who commanded significant salaries ($15.4 million and $6.295 million respectively). Mihailovic’s previous contract with the Rapids was a comparatively modest $1.775 million, offering Toronto financial flexibility.
Mihailovic will wear the iconic No. 10 jersey,previously worn by Bernardeschi,Alejandro Pozuelo,Sebastian giovinco,and Robert Earnshaw,signifying the club’s expectations for his impact.
Looking Ahead
Currently, Canadian international Theo Corbeanu leads TFC with five goals, while Honduran Deybi Flores tops the team in assists with two.Mihailovic’s arrival is expected to significantly elevate Toronto’s attacking output.
Toronto will look to integrate Mihailovic quickly as they prepare to face the Eastern Conference-leading Philadelphia Union (15-5-5) on Saturday.The addition of Mihailovic represents a clear statement of intent from Toronto FC as they strive to return to the upper echelons of MLS.