Toronto FC sack Robin Fraser after disappointing MLS campaign as coaching overhaul begins

Toronto FC sack Robin Fraser after disappointing MLS campaign as coaching overhaul begins.

Toronto FC have parted ways with head coach Robin Fraser following another disappointing Major League Soccer campaign, with the Canadian club immediately beginning the search for a new manager ahead of the 2027 MLS Sprint Season.

The club officially announced Fraser’s departure on Monday, November 9, bringing an end to his tenure after less than two years in charge.

The decision follows a disappointing 2026 season in which Toronto FC finished 12th in the Eastern Conference with 39 points, missing out on the MLS Cup Playoffs. The club’s failure to reach the postseason continues a difficult spell, with its last playoff appearance dating back to 2020.

Toronto FC General Manager Jason Hernandez confirmed that the club had decided a change in leadership was necessary, admitting that the team’s performances and results had fallen below expectations despite the quality of the available squad.

Hernandez also confirmed that the coaching shake-up extends beyond Fraser. Assistant coaches Neil Emblen, Wolde Harris and Jase Kim will also leave the club as Toronto undertakes a wider restructuring of its technical team.

Fraser was appointed on January 10, 2025, replacing John Herdman. However, Toronto finished 12th in the Eastern Conference in both seasons under his leadership, failing to deliver the consistency and competitive progress expected by the club.

The managerial change comes at a particularly important time for Toronto, with MLS preparing for its historic 2027 Sprint Season. The abbreviated competition will begin in February and feature 14 regular-season matches for each club, seven at home and seven away, before the playoffs in May.

Toronto will therefore be looking for a new manager capable of rebuilding the team’s competitiveness and taking advantage of the fresh start offered by the upcoming campaign.

Meanwhile, Hernandez is scheduled to address the media during the club’s year-end media availability on Tuesday, November 10, at 9:30 a.m. local time at BMO Training Ground. His appearance is expected to provide further insight into the club’s decision and its plans for the next managerial appointment.