Toronto FC signs legend’s son as its next big goalkeeping prospect | OneFootball

Toronto FC shook the market with the signing of goalkeeper Adisa De Rosario, a 20-year-old who signed a deal through 2026, with options extending to 2027 and 2028. His name certainly stands out-being the son of MLS legend Dwayne De Rosario comes with expectations. Now, Adisa faces the challenge of proving he's not just following in his father's footsteps but carving out his own legacy at the club.

A big name, but how about his game?

So far in his career, Adisa hasn't blown people away; more like chugging along steadily. He had recorded 55 saves in 25 matches for Toronto FC II of MLS NEXT Pro. He made stops in the Canadian Premier League with both the Halifax Wanderers and York United. Now a member of the first team, the question more than talent becomes about handling the pressure and adjusting to the highest level.

Toronto FC’s general manager Jason Hernandez expressed confidence in the young keeper, emphasizing his hard work in the Academy and with TFC II: "We’re really excited to have Adisa as part of the first-team squad. He’s worked extremely hard during his time in the Academy and with TFC II, and we’re looking forward to continuing to provide him opportunities to grow and develop."

But nice words are just the start. The leap to MLS is so much more than promise, and the reality can be cruel on young keepers.

Was this a good move for Toronto FC?

Considering Toronto FC's instability in the last couple of seasons, adding in a homegrown goalkeeper is on par with the club's rebuilding process. Adding in a new head coach in Robin Fraser, the signing shows a new beginning.

But MLS is not for test runs: young goalkeepers-especially ones that have never played at the first-team level for any team-find the pace of the league very hard to catch up with. In hurrying Adisa onto the pitch, there's an actual danger of rushing him, which, if he can fit in right away, could be a helpful piece in Toronto FC.

Setting the stage for what's to come, Toronto's 2025 season opener against D.C. United on February 22 will be the perfect avenue. Whether Adisa gets his chance early or has to wait, his biggest test will be proving that his last name isn't a burden, but just the starting point for something bigger.

In the end, this can prove to be a masterstroke for Toronto FC, or yet another testimony that soccer legacy means nothing if success is not attained. What Adisa does from here onwards will eventually define his future.