Toronto FC Parts Ways with Insigne, Bernardeschi in MLS Buyouts

Toronto FC has mutually terminated the contracts of Italian internationals Lorenzo Insigne and Federico Bernardeschi after three years with the club, marking the end of a high-profile but unsuccessful era. Insigne, signed from Napoli with a four-year $60 million deal, was the second-highest paid player in MLS in 2024, while Bernardeschi came from Juventus and was also a Designated Player earning $6.3 million. Both players struggled with injuries and failed to significantly improve the club's fortunes, with Toronto FC finishing near the bottom of the Eastern Conference during their tenure and missing the playoffs each season. The team used its two available buyouts of guaranteed contracts to facilitate the departures, with Bernardeschi reportedly in advanced talks with Bologna. Toronto FC's general manager Jason Hernandez expressed gratitude for their contributions and emphasized that this moment aligns with the club's strategy to rebuild and return to competitiveness. The club is now set to begin reinforcing its roster during the MLS Secondary Transfer Window under a new coaching regime.