Latest news with #Djordje
Winnipeg Free Press
3 days ago
- Sport
- Winnipeg Free Press
Toronto FC calls Mihailovic the team's new ‘reference point,' with more help to come
TORONTO – Djordje Mihailovic says he was drawn to Toronto FC by the opportunity to add to its winning tradition. Now it's up to the MLS club to surround the star playmaker with the talent to get the franchise back to those lofty heights. With some 17 players on contracts that expire at the end of the year — albeit with TFC holding club options on all of them save veteran defender Kevin Long — general manager Jason Hernandez and coach Robin Fraser have the ability to clear the decks as needed. Toronto, which sits 12th in the Eastern Conference at 5-13-6, has been without a designated player and star power since buying out the contracts of Italians Lorenzo Insigne and Federico Bernardeschi in early July. Mihailovic, who cost Toronto $8 million (all figures in U.S. dollars) in transfer fees plus a conditional extra $1 million if certain performance metrics are met, is a terrific piece to build around. Able to score goals and make them, the former Colorado Rapids attacking midfielder brings the kind of creativity and panache Toronto once boasted in the form of Sebastian Giovinco, Victor Vazquez and Alejandro Pozuelo. And at 26, the U.S. international arrives with a long runway — and knowledge of the league. Mihailovic is dangerous from set pieces and is a reliable penalty-taker. He also has the knack of being in the right place at the right time, able to finding creases in opposing defences. The hope is those skills represent the rising tide that helps lift TFC back to its winning ways. 'When I hear Toronto FC, all I think about is the (2017) treble, trophies, the MVP players before me,' Mihailovic told a news conference after his first training sessions in TFC colours. 'And you think of just a massive club. That was how it was when I first came into the league (in 2017 with Chicago). That thought alone drew me, immediately.' Understandably there were smiles all round Friday as Toronto unveiled its prized new asset, with wife Ajla (pronounced EYE-lah) and young son Aleksi also in attendance. But Fraser and Hernandez both offered a dose of realism among the celebration. 'Certainly for us to be successful, it can't be about just one player,' Fraser said. 'But we feel like we're in the process of building a style of play, an identity that if we can get into deep parts of the field, then we're talking about trying to add some precision to really take advantage of some of those attacks. And certainly bringing Djordje here is the first step.' Added Hernandez: 'Djordje is going to give us a massive boost in so many ways. However, he needs to be only just the beginning. And we need to continue to try to improve all parts of the team … This is a great step one, a great pillar, a great foundational piece.' The GM will look to build around Mihailovic, calling him TFC's new 'reference point' Mihailovic could see his first action Saturday when Toronto visits the Eastern Conference-leading Philadelphia Union (15-5-5). 'Not sure if Djordje plays or not … We're preparing for anything,' said Philadelphia coach Bradley Carnell. 'We're preparing for their best and they have a pretty good squad.' Just how good will be determined over the next 10 games. And while Fraser says the team, which enters the weekend 14 points below the playoff line, is now in 'must-win' mode, this season is more about the future than the present. Jobs are on the line. 'Every one has a chance to put their best foot forward and make a case for why they should be part of the project moving forward,' said Hernandez Most agree Toronto is better than its record indicates. And Fraser sees progression. 'I do feel like we have a little bit more of an idea of how we want to play. And I think it's starting to show week-in and week-out,' he said. But while its defence, despite a plague of injuries, has improved under Fraser, a former two-time MLS Defender of the Year, the offence has been inconsistent at best. TFC ranks 13th in the league on defence but 26th on offence, scoring just 25 goals in 24 games. Canadian winger Theo Corbeanu leads the side with five goals while Honduran Deybi Flores, a defensive-minded midfielder, tops the team with two assists. Mihailovic, meanwhile, has scored 48 goals and added 63 assists in 243 games during a pro career in MLS and Europe. The five-foot-10 153-pounder scored 23 goals and added 22 assists in 63 appearances in all competitions with Colorado since joining the club as a DP in January 2024. The Florida native had nine goals and seven assists in 24 regular-season outings for Colorado this year. Toronto needs help everywhere, Hernandez acknowledged. 'Look, I don't think we could find ourselves in the table where we are at the moment and don't believe that we can improve all parts of the team,' said the GM, which has been quietly rebuilding TFC's stockpile of general allocation money. Part of TFC's problem has been having to change tack mid-season, once the costly Italian experiment was over. Forward Ola Brynhildsen has only been able to show glimpses of his talent, hampered by injuries and a lack of playmaking around him. Fellow striker Deandre Kerr is talented but raw. Thursdays Keep up to date on sports with Mike McIntyre's weekly newsletter. The roster simply isn't deep enough, meaning the degree of difficulty is amplified when the team makes a mistake and falls behind. Brynhildsen, Corbeanu and midfielder Maxime Dominguez are all here on loans, with options to buy. Mihailovic was making $1.775 million with the Rapids this season, a bargain compared to what Toronto was paying Insigne ($15.4 million) and Bernardeschi ($6.295 million). Mihailovic's new 3 1/2-year deal with Toronto, plus a club option for 2029, no doubt comes with a hefty raise. — This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 8, 2025.
Winnipeg Free Press
4 days ago
- Sport
- Winnipeg Free Press
Toronto acquires midfielder Mihailovic for $8 million from the Colorado Rapids
TORONTO (AP) — Toronto FC have acquired attacking midfielder Djordje Mihailovic in a trade with the Colorado Rapids for $8 million, the teams announced Thursday. The cash-for-player exchange includes another $1 million if certain performance goals are met. Mihailovic, 26, signed a three-year deal that will keep him in Toronto through 2028 with a club option for 2029. He will occupy a designated player roster spot. 'When I first joined the league, Toronto was a powerhouse, and I could tell it was one of the best teams in MLS. I know the history and potential of this club and where it can go,' Mihailovic said in a statement. Over the course of his career, Mihailovic has played for the Chicago Fire, CF Montreal, and Dutch club AZ Alkmaar in addition to the Rapids. He's scored 48 career goals with 63 assists. He has scored nine goals with seven assists this season for Colorado. 'We communicated our vision for the club moving forward, and Djordje expressed his excitement in embracing the responsibility as the focal point of our new project,' Toronto general manager Jason Hernandez said. 'We know Djordje is only beginning to enter his prime and will be a key piece of our franchise for many years to come.' Mihailovic has also played for the U.S. national team, appearing in 11 matches with three goals. ___ AP soccer:
Canada News.Net
4 days ago
- Business
- Canada News.Net
Toronto FC land Rapids M Djordje Mihailovic for $8M
(Photo credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images) Toronto FC completed a previously reported cash-for-player trade for Colorado Rapids midfielder Djordje Mihailovic on Thursday. The Rapids received $8 million in the trade, a club record. A report by GiveMeSport earlier this week said the deal will also include $1 million in add-ons and a sell-on percentage. Mihailovic, 26, will join the fourth MLS club of his career. The native of Jacksonville, Fla., said in a statement that he requested the trade to Toronto. 'I want to thank everyone at the Colorado Rapids for everything they've done for me over the past year. This club brought me back from Europe and supported me in my dream of representing the United States in the Olympics,' Mihailovic's statement said. 'Most recently, I asked for a move to Toronto for personal reasons, and I deeply appreciate the professionalism and understanding the Rapids showed in facilitating this transfer. I'm grateful to everyone I've met here; teammates, coaches, staff, and fans, and I'll always carry those positive memories with me.' Mihailovic joined the Rapids ahead of the 2024 season after time with the Chicago Fire (2017-20), CF Montreal (2021-22) and the Dutch club AZ Alkmaar (2023). Mihailovic has nine goals with seven assists through 24 matches (all starts) this season, on pace to break the career highs of 11 goals he set last year. In 187 career MLS matches, Mihailovic has recorded 40 goals and 21 assists. He has also made 11 appearances for the USMNT, scoring one goal. 'Djordje made a meaningful impact during his time in Colorado, and while we're disappointed to see him go, especially at this stage in the season, we wish him well in the next chapter of his career,' Rapids president Padraig Smith said in a statement. 'Our ambition is to build a championship contender, and we're committed to turning Djordje's departure into an opportunity to further strengthen the roster as we continue our quest to bring an MLS Cup back to Colorado.' The Rapids (8-11-6, 30 points) currently occupy the ninth and final playoff position in the Western Conference, while Toronto FC ( 5-13-6, 21 points) are a distant 14 points out of ninth in the East.
Toronto Sun
4 days ago
- Sport
- Toronto Sun
Toronto FC adds to its attack, acquiring Djordje Mihailovic as a designated player
Published Aug 07, 2025 • 4 minute read Former Colorado Rapids midfielder Djordje Mihailovic is joining Toronto FC. Photo by David Zalubowski / The Associated Press Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page. Toronto FC has acquired Djordje Mihailovic from the Colorado Rapids in a cash deal worth up to $9 million (all figures in U.S. dollars), hoping the attacking midfielder will help revive its attack. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account. Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments. Enjoy additional articles per month. Get email updates from your favourite authors. THIS ARTICLE IS FREE TO READ REGISTER TO UNLOCK. Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments Enjoy additional articles per month Get email updates from your favourite authors Don't have an account? Create Account The transfer cost Toronto $8 million with up to $1 million in conditional cash if certain performance-based metrics are met. Colorado also retains a sell-on percentage if the player is traded or transferred. Mihailovic joins Toronto as a designated player, signing a 3 1/2-year contract through the end of 2028 with a club option for 2029. 'The signing of Djordje is a landmark moment, not just for our team, but for our fans, as the clearest symbol of our ownership's intention and commitment to winning,' Toronto general manager Jason Hernandez said in a statement. 'As we determined the best strategy to approach our team's transformation, we identified Djordje as the perfect foundational piece for our club, as one of the most prolific chance-creators in MLS. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. 'Djordje's ability to deliver high-level output week in and week out is widely understood, but his winning mentality and desire to elevate TFC were key factors in securing him as our new No. 10 … We know Djordje is only beginning to enter his prime and will be a key piece of our franchise for many years to come.' Earlier Thursday, TFC announced it had acquired $175,000 in 2025 general allocation money from the Portland Timbers in exchange for a 2025 international roster slot. The Mihailovic transfer is the latest in a line of big moves in Major League Soccer this week with German star Thomas Muller joining the Vancouver Whitecaps from Bayern Munich and South Korean captain Son Heung-Min joining Los Angeles FC from England's Tottenham. Your noon-hour look at what's happening in Toronto and beyond. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. Please try again This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. At his best, Mihailovic is a game-changer, something Toronto (5-13-6) sorely needs. With 25 goals in 24 games, TFC ranks 26th in the league on offence. Mihailovic can score goals and set them up. The 26-year-old U.S. international has scored 48 goals and added 63 assists in 243 games during a pro career in MLS and Europe. The five-foot-10 153-pounder has 23 goals and 22 assists in 63 appearances in all competitions with Colorado since joining the club as a DP in January 2024. In his first season with the Rapids, he set a club record for most goal contributions in a single season with 11 goals and 14 assists in regular-season play. The Florida native has nine goals and seven assists in 24 regular-season outings for Colorado this year. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. With 41 MLS goal contributions, Mihailovic surpassed Mark Chung who held the record (38) by a Rapids player in their first two seasons with the club. '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. '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 environment like this.' Mihailovic can cause teams problems a variety of ways. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. A reliable penalty-taker (he beat Toronto's Sean Johnson with a perfectly executed Panenka down the middle last September), Mihailovic's dangerous set-piece deliveries will bring a smile to the likes of Toronto's Kevin Long on corners. Mihailovic also has the knack of being in the right place at the right time, able to finding creases in opposing defences. He demonstrated that in March 2024 when he opened his scoring account for Colorado in a 3-2 comeback win over visiting Los Angeles FC. His corner kick set up Canadian Moise Bombito's headed goal before Mihailovic himself scored a brace, with his first goal from a direct kick and the second by acrobatically deflecting the ball in with his thigh. Toronto has been without a DP since buying out the contracts of Italians Lorenzo Insigne and Federico Bernardeschi in early July. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Canadian international Theo Corbeanu leads TFC with five goals while Honduran Deybi Flores, a defensive-minded midfielder, tops the team with two assists. Mihailovic was making $1.775 million with the Rapids this season, a bargain compared to the $15.4 million Toronto was paying Insigne and the $6.295 million Bernardeschi was earning. Mihailovic will wear No. 10 for Toronto, following in the footsteps of Bernardeschi, Alejandro Pozuelo, Sebastian Giovinco and Robert Earnshaw. Toronto marks the fifth career team for Mihailovic and his second in Canada. He spent the 2021 and '22 seasons with CF Montreal, playing 61 regular-season games, including 57 starts. In 2021, he recorded 16 assists, erasing the previous club record of 13 set by Ignacio Piatti in 2018. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Montreal had acquired Mihailovic from the Chicago Fire in exchange for up to $1 million in general allocation money. Signed as a homegrown player from the Fire academy in January 2017, he played 73 regular-season games for the Fire, including 45 starts, with seven goals and 15 assists. After the 2022 MLS season, Mihailovic left Montreal to join AZ Alkmaar in the Netherlands. He had two goals and two assists in 36 appearances across all competitions for the Dutch side before joining Colorado on a four-year contract through 2027 with a club option through 2028. Mihailovic has one goal in 11 appearances for the U.S., scoring against Panama in a January 2019 friendly. Toronto visits the Eastern Conference-leading Philadelphia Union (15-5-5) on Saturday. Columnists Toronto Maple Leafs Toronto & GTA Toronto & GTA World
Winnipeg Free Press
4 days ago
- Business
- Winnipeg Free Press
Toronto FC adds to its attack, acquiring Djordje Mihailovic as a designated player
TORONTO – Toronto FC has acquired Djordje Mihailovic from the Colorado Rapids in a cash deal worth up to $9 million (all figures in U.S. dollars), hoping the attacking midfielder will help revive its attack. The transfer cost Toronto $8 million with up to $1 million in conditional cash if certain performance-based metrics are met. Colorado also retains a sell-on percentage if the player is traded or transferred. Mihailovic joins Toronto as a designated player, signing a 3 1/2-year contract through the end of 2028 with a club option for 2029. 'The signing of Djordje is a landmark moment, not just for our team, but for our fans, as the clearest symbol of our ownership's intention and commitment to winning,' Toronto general manager Jason Hernandez said in a statement. 'As we determined the best strategy to approach our team's transformation, we identified Djordje as the perfect foundational piece for our club, as one of the most prolific chance-creators in MLS. 'Djordje's ability to deliver high-level output week in and week out is widely understood, but his winning mentality and desire to elevate TFC were key factors in securing him as our new No. 10 … We know Djordje is only beginning to enter his prime and will be a key piece of our franchise for many years to come.' Earlier Thursday, TFC announced it had acquired $175,000 in 2025 general allocation money from the Portland Timbers in exchange for a 2025 international roster slot. The Mihailovic transfer is the latest in a line of big moves in Major League Soccer this week with German star Thomas Müller joining the Vancouver Whitecaps from Bayern Munich and South Korean captain Son Heung-Min joining Los Angeles FC from England's Tottenham. At his best, Mihailovic is a game-changer, something Toronto (5-13-6) sorely needs. With 25 goals in 24 games, TFC ranks 26th in the league on offence. Mihailovic can score goals and set them up. The 26-year-old U.S. international has scored 48 goals and added 63 assists in 243 games during a pro career in MLS and Europe. The five-foot-10 153-pounder has 23 goals and 22 assists in 63 appearances in all competitions with Colorado since joining the club as a DP in January 2024. In his first season with the Rapids, he set a club record for most goal contributions in a single season with 11 goals and 14 assists in regular-season play. The Florida native has nine goals and seven assists in 24 regular-season outings for Colorado this year. With 41 MLS goal contributions, Mihailovic surpassed Mark Chung who held the record (38) by a Rapids player in their first two seasons with the club. '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. '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 environment like this.' Mihailovic can cause teams problems a variety of ways. A reliable penalty-taker (he beat Toronto's Sean Johnson with a perfectly executed Panenka down the middle last September), Mihailovic's dangerous set-piece deliveries will bring a smile to the likes of Toronto's Kevin Long on corners. Mihailovic also has the knack of being in the right place at the right time, able to finding creases in opposing defences. He demonstrated that in March 2024 when he opened his scoring account for Colorado in a 3-2 comeback win over visiting Los Angeles FC. His corner kick set up Canadian Moise Bombito's headed goal before Mihailovic himself scored a brace, with his first goal from a direct kick and the second by acrobatically deflecting the ball in with his thigh. Toronto has been without a DP since buying out the contracts of Italians Lorenzo Insigne and Federico Bernardeschi in early July. Canadian international Theo Corbeanu leads TFC with five goals while Honduran Deybi Flores, a defensive-minded midfielder, tops the team with two assists. Mihailovic was making $1.775 million with the Rapids this season, a bargain compared to the $15.4 million Toronto was paying Insigne and the $6.295 million Bernardeschi was earning. Mihailovic will wear No. 10 for Toronto, following in the footsteps of Bernardeschi, Alejandro Pozuelo, Sebastian Giovinco and Robert Earnshaw. Toronto marks the fifth career team for Mihailovic and his second in Canada. He spent the 2021 and '22 seasons with CF Montreal, playing 61 regular-season games, including 57 starts. In 2021, he recorded 16 assists, erasing the previous club record of 13 set by Ignacio Piatti in 2018. Montreal had acquired Mihailovic from the Chicago Fire in exchange for up to $1 million in general allocation money. Signed as a homegrown player from the Fire academy in January 2017, he played 73 regular-season games for the Fire, including 45 starts, with seven goals and 15 assists. Thursdays Keep up to date on sports with Mike McIntyre's weekly newsletter. After the 2022 MLS season, Mihailovic left Montreal to join AZ Alkmaar in the Netherlands. He had two goals and two assists in 36 appearances across all competitions for the Dutch side before joining Colorado on a four-year contract through 2027 with a club option through 2028. Mihailovic has one goal in 11 appearances for the U.S., scoring against Panama in a January 2019 friendly. Toronto visits the Eastern Conference-leading Philadelphia Union (15-5-5) on Saturday. — This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 6, 2025
