Is Lorenzo Insigne’s time at Toronto FC over? What’s next for the $15M MLS star | OneFootball

When Toronto FC signed Lorenzo Insigne in June 2022, it came with a lot of risk. The Italian forward was a Euro 2021 champion who came with fanfare, high expectations, and a contract that made him one of the highest-paid players in MLS history. Two and a half years later, the relationship between Insigne and the Canadian club seems to be at an impasse. It finds results falling short on and off the pitch, and contract termination is now within the realms of consideration to further leave the star's future in limbo.

A promise of a new level

When Insigne left Napoli for Toronto FC, the results were immediate: not just for the star power but what his move meant-a European champion showing up in MLS. His annual salary of $15.4 million made him the league's second-highest-paid player, behind only Lionel Messi. In Toronto, the hope was his arrival represented ambition and a likely turn in fortune.

Yet, what should have been a great leap for the team eventually turned into a headache. Coming in with great expectation, his performances never really gave reason for justification. The struggle with injuries, disappointing numbers, and playing out of place made the Italian far from being able to answer to the hopes the club and its fans held for him.

Injuries and poor numbers

Through his second full season in 2024, Insigne has started 18 matches, scoring just four goals. He hasn't scored since June 15, partly because disrupted rhythm-two different calf injuries have kept him off the pitch at one point or another. Taken altogether, that gives him 14 goals and 14 assists in 54 regular-season appearances, which must be considered decidedly modest for a star of his caliber.

The injuries not only limited his contributions but also brought serious questions into his role in Toronto FC's plans. Keeping one of the highest-paid players in league history on the sidelines or in recovery isn't just frustrating; it's unsustainable for a team looking to rebuild.

A contract weighing the team down

Insigne is not only the second-highest-paid player in MLS, but his annual salary is higher than the entire payroll of seven other teams. With a contract that runs to June 2026, he's become a financial burden for Toronto FC. Coupled with the lackluster performances, this has placed the club in a position where drastic options need to be weighed up, including contract termination.

Fact is, as long as Insigne remains on the books, Toronto cannot come anywhere near balancing the books or piecing together a competitive roster. Releasing him would free up much-needed resources to pursue other talent, greater freedom under the salary cap-important elements in piecing together their retool.

Unhappiness, uncertain future

For Lorenzo Insigne, Canada probably wasn't the dream destination. Off the very modest stats recorded by him in this league so far, there have been reports about disagreements with the coaches and a general feeling of evident failure to adapt. With Toronto FC in search of an exit for Insigne, he is reportedly eyeing either a move back to European soccer or across the Middle East, where the market has increasingly lured a good number of veterans.

These are the options that create a fork in the road for Insigne. He still has market value but needs to show an ability to return to the decisive form that made him so important at Napoli and with the Italian national team. His next destination will be a critical one in determining the rest of his career, whether it is in Europe or in the Middle East.

The impact on Toronto FC

Insigne's departure could prove to be a turning point for Toronto FC. A team that has failed to make the playoffs since his arrival, changes are badly needed at the club if they are to be competitive. Moving on from such a high-profile name may hurt their image, but it is a move that can give them space to build toward effectiveness.

For MLS, Insigne's case is also a reminder of the risks involved in signing international stars. Big names don't always translate to success on the field, especially when injuries, adaptation, and playing style come into play.