Toronto FC have signed goalkeeper Adisa De Rosario to a first-team contract through 2026, with options for 2027 and 2028.
The 20-year-old is expected to strengthen the club’s goalkeeping roster and inject a promising talent to the squad.
De Rosario, the son of MLS legend Dwayne De Rosario, was signed to Toronto FC’s academy in 2015 and is now taking a big step in his career.
Where Adisa stands in the goalkeeping depth chart
Toronto already has skilled goalkeepers such as Sean Johnson and Luka Gavran. Johnson, 35, has played in 452 matches and kept 116 clean sheets. His contract expires at the end of 2024.
Gavran, 24, signed through 2027, has played in 56 matches and recorded 13 clean sheets.
For now, De Rosario looks set to be Toronto’s third-choice goalkeeper. His contract with TFC II expired in December 2024, but the management has now moved quickly to retain him.
He has played in 30 career matches, conceding 56 goals and registering only two clean sheets. His loan stints with York United FC and Halifax Wanderers in the Canadian Premier League gave him the needed experience and exposure to compete.
Evaluating De Rosario’s potential impact
A significant question is if De Rosario can credibly get regular game time in the near future.
Even though he has shown some potential at the lower levels, MLS seems like a more formidable test.
His stats show he can grow, especially when soaking in high-pressure conditions and commanding his area.
Sean Johnson’s age and contract situation make the discussion even more interesting. At 35, he is approaching the end of his career, forcing Toronto FC to get ready for the imminent transition.
If De Rosario progresses well, he could become Johnson’s replacement. However, Luka Gavran, who has gained some professional experience, is probably an obstacle to this dream.
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Toronto FC’s long-term strategy
This signing shows how Toronto FC is committed to nurturing homegrown talent. Capitalizing on academy players establishes sustainability and long-term squad depth, especially after the recent regrets over Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty trade.
Still, whether De Rosario will play regularly or remain a reserve option will hinge entirely on Toronto FC’s policy on youth development and its competitive desires.
Also, De Rosario could have trade value. If he performs well but remains on the bench, Toronto FC could use him as a trade asset and end up like York United’s Julian Altobelli.
For now, De Rosario has to make every effort to adjust to the first-team setting. His immediate game time may come up in cup competitions and substitute appearances.
However, if he uses these opportunities effectively, he could become a significant character in Toronto FC’s plans.