Robin Fraser Returns as Toronto FC Head Coach: Aiming for Glory Once Again

Toronto FC has officially announced Robin Fraser as its new head coach, marking the return of a familiar face with a proven track record in Major League Soccer (MLS). Fraser, who served as an assistant coach at TFC from 2015 to 2019, steps into the role with the mission of restoring the club to its former heights.

At 58, Fraser brings extensive experience, having played a pivotal role in Toronto’s golden era, including the historic 2017 Treble-winning season, where TFC secured the MLS Cup, Supporters’ Shield, and Canadian Championship. During his tenure, Toronto also claimed two additional Canadian Championships (2016, 2018) and made it to the 2016 MLS Cup final and the 2018 CONCACAF Champions League final.

“I’m thrilled to return to Toronto FC, a place that feels like home,” Fraser said during his introduction. “While it’s not the same club as before, I see an opportunity to reignite the passion and unity that once defined this team.”

Fraser takes over from John Herdman, who stepped down as head coach in late November 2024. Toronto FC, currently undergoing a “methodical rebuild,” is looking to break a streak of four consecutive seasons without a playoff appearance.

A Proven Leader with MLS Success

Fraser left Toronto in 2019 to take the helm at the Colorado Rapids, where he achieved notable success, including a 2021 campaign that saw the Rapids finish first in the Western Conference with a club-record 61 points. Fraser was runner-up for MLS Coach of the Year that season. Despite his achievements, Fraser departed Colorado in 2023, leaving behind a 47-48-34 record.

Now back with Toronto, Fraser is tasked with turning around a team that finished 22nd in the Supporters’ Shield standings last season, scoring just 40 goals while conceding 61.

“It will take a collective effort to rebuild this club,” Fraser emphasized. “If everyone does their job and aligns with our vision, success will follow. Those who don’t want to be on board will have to go.”

Shared Vision for the Future

General Manager Jason Hernandez expressed confidence in Fraser’s leadership, citing his tactical expertise, integrity, and familiarity with the organization.

“Robin understands this club, its history, and its expectations. His return brings a sense of continuity and purpose to our project,” said Hernandez.

Fraser inherits a roster in need of reinforcements, particularly in the attack, where stars Lorenzo Insigne and Federico Bernardeschi are expected to lead the charge. The team is actively searching for additional talent to bolster the squad.

Building on a Legacy

As a former MLS defender with 27 caps for the U.S. national team, Fraser has a wealth of experience both on and off the pitch. His coaching journey began as an assistant at Real Salt Lake, where he helped the team win the MLS Cup in 2009. He later served as head coach at Chivas USA and as an assistant at New York Red Bulls before joining Toronto for his first stint.

Fraser’s deep connection to TFC, combined with his tactical acumen, has fans and club executives optimistic about the road ahead.

The team departs for Spain on Friday to continue pre-season preparations, with Fraser ready to take charge and shape a new era for Toronto FC.