Toronto FC has made a statement signing that could reshape their attacking prowess, securing the services of prolific playmaker Djordje Mihailovic in a landmark $8 million deal.
Djordje Mihailovic: A Prolific Playmaker Unveiled
At just 26 years old, Djordje Mihailovic has already etched his name as one of the most creative and impactful midfielders in Major League Soccer. With 48 goals and 63 assists across 243 professional games, his ability to unlock defenses and orchestrate attacks is unquestionable. Mihailovic joins Toronto FC as a Designated Player on a three-and-a-half-year contract through 2028, with a club option for 2029, pending the necessary paperwork. This acquisition signals Toronto FC’s ambition to build a formidable squad capable of competing at the highest level.
From Chicago to Colorado: Tracing a Meteoric Rise
Mihailovic’s journey to becoming one of MLS’s most sought-after talents began with the Chicago Fire Academy, where he honed his skills before signing as a Homegrown Player with their first team in 2017. Over four seasons with the Fire, he made 76 appearances, contributing 7 goals and 15 assists. His performances caught the eye of CF Montréal, who acquired him in 2021. That year, Mihailovic set a club record with 16 assists, propelling Montréal to the 2021 Canadian Championship title and a quarterfinal appearance in the 2022 Concacaf Champions League.
The Dutch Detour: Eredivisie Lessons Learned
Before his recent stint with Colorado Rapids, Mihailovic spent two seasons (2022/23, 2023/24) in the Dutch Eredivisie with AZ Alkmaar, making 36 appearances across all competitions and registering two goals and two assists. This experience in one of Europe’s top leagues undoubtedly broadened his tactical understanding and exposed him to a higher level of competition, further refining his skills.
Concacaf Conquests: Mihailovic’s Winning Pedigree
Mihailovic’s pedigree extends beyond club success, as he has also represented the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) on 11 occasions, featuring in the 2019 and 2023 Concacaf Gold Cups. Furthermore, he was part of the U.S. Men’s Olympic Team at the 2024 Paris Olympics, scoring two goals and an assist in four games. This winning mentality and experience on the international stage will undoubtedly benefit Toronto FC as they aim to conquer both domestic and continental competitions.
