Jonathan Osorio Reflects on John Herdman's Departure from Toronto FC | OneFootball

Toronto FC captain Jonathan Osorio recently addressed the unexpected resignation of head coach John Herdman, shedding light on the circumstances behind the decision.

Herdman’s departure came after a turbulent 2024 season, where Toronto FC failed to qualify for the MLS Eastern Conference playoffs and lost the Canadian Championship final.

Despite some improvements compared to the previous year, the results fell short of the club’s ambitions, leaving fans and players alike frustrated.

Herdman’s resignation on November 29 came as a shock to many, especially as the coach seemed committed to leading a long-term rebuilding project for the team.

However, according to Osorio, Herdman’s decision was influenced by a combination of professional setbacks and personal considerations.

Controversies and Their Impact

One of the key factors behind Herdman’s resignation was the ongoing controversy surrounding the Canadian national teams. Reports have linked Herdman to allegations of espionage involving the Canadian women’s national team during a training camp in Paris.

Although Herdman has not been formally charged, the fallout from the incident has already led to the dismissal and one-year suspension of the Canadian women’s team head coach.

Osorio explained that Herdman made his decision to protect both his reputation and the integrity of Toronto FC. Herdman’s departure, according to the midfielder, was intended to prevent the club from being drawn into the controversy and to allow the team to focus on rebuilding without distractions.

A Difficult but Necessary Decision

As captain, Osorio emphasized his understanding of Herdman’s decision, noting the coach’s commitment to doing what was best for the club.

Herdman’s exit leaves Toronto FC at a crossroads, with the club now searching for a new coach to lead them into the 2025 season. While the circumstances of his departure were far from ideal, Osorio highlighted the importance of moving forward and focusing on the future.

Toronto FC now faces the challenge of rebuilding under new leadership. While Herdman’s departure marks the end of a brief but pivotal chapter, the club remains determined to bounce back from a disappointing season and regain its standing as one of MLS’s most competitive teams.

With players like Osorio leading the way, Toronto FC will aim to turn the page and start fresh in the upcoming campaign.