Opinion

Random thoughts on TFC: International window looms large

A string of national team call-ups is going to leave Toronto FC short-handed for a crucial road game in Nashville next week.

John Molinaro

Sep 17, 2026 — 7 min read

(Photo by Michael Chisholm/Toronto FC)

Some random thoughts I had on Toronto FC ahead of Saturday's road match vs. the Chicago Fire (7:30 p.m. ET/Apple TV).

Note: I will be at Energizer Park in St. Louis to cover this game, so be sure to visit TFC Republic in order to check out our special on-site coverage.

Can Canada call-up spark Richard Chukwu at Toronto FC?

Regarded as one of the team's brightest prospects, Richard Chukwu graduated from TFC 2 to the first team in July when Toronto FC signed him to a "homegrown player" contract through the 2029-30 season with a club option for 2030-31.

Chukwu, from Bradford, Ont., originally joined TFC’s youth academy in 2020 and went on to make his debut for TFC 2 on June 30, 2024, before signing his first contract with the Young Reds earlier this year. In total, he had two assists in 36 appearances for TFC 2 across three MLS NEXT Pro seasons (2024 to 2026).

TFC Tidbits: Reds switch player models; Niklas Dorsch a DP

The publication of the MLS roster profiles on Thursday revealed Toronto converted Dorsch from a TAM player into a DP.

Toronto FC, long time team chief medical officer part company

TFC Republic has learned that Toronto FC and longtime team physician Dr. Ira Smith have agreed to mutually part ways.

TFC Tidbits: Nelson Palacio out for the rest of the season

The Colombian midfielder will have to wait until 2027 to make his Toronto FC debut after having thigh surgery this week.

TFC notebook: Jonathan Osorio on the mend from knee injury

Toronto FC's captain is back in full training, sparking hope that he could return to action sometime soon.