Major League Soccer outfit Toronto FC have made a huge decision on the immediate future of former Mamelodi Sundowns striker Cassius Mailula.
In a brief statement published on the Canadian side’s website, it’s been confirmed that Mailula has been loaned out to Toronto B – the club’s reserve team that plays in the MLS Pro, which is the third tier in American soccer.
READ | Celebrations erupt in Canada as Mailula shines
"Toronto FC announced today that the club has loaned out forward Cassius Mailula to Toronto B…Toronto FC retains the right to recall the player at any time during the MLS regular season,” the club statement, published on Sunday, reads.
The move comes as somewhat of a surprise for the Bafana Bafana striker, who proved his ability with a goal in his first start for Toronto during a 5-0 hammering of Simcoe County Rovers in the Canadian Championship last week.
CAAAAAASH ??????pic.twitter.com/61IrogOW9p
— Toronto FC (@TorontoFC) April 25, 2024
On the flip side of the coin, though, the pint-sized attacker has struggled to cement a regular starting role in the MLS and the move may help his efforts to get up to speed with his not-so-new surroundings.
Toronto head coach John Herdman’s comments may provide some insight into the decision.
"I’m really happy that he (Mailula) got his goal, he’s been really patient through the pre-season and the season,” Herdsman told the media after the match against Simcoe County.
"When there’s one game a week and you’ve players like Osario, Insigne, Bernardeschi that play at the top of the box in those forward areas, it’s very difficult for Cassi (Cassius) to get game-time and minutes.
"Every week, he keeps his head down. He works hard, and he always has a positive outlook. I think players like that build resilience through MLS.
"This season might not be his season, might be, but if he can keep doing what he is doing, which [is] staying focused, he’s got a chance."
ALSO READ | Big-money Billiat proving class is permanent
The 22-year-old was voted the DStv Premiership’s Young Player of the Season after a scintillating debut campaign (2022/23) that saw him contribute 15 goals and four assists for The Brazilians.
You must be SIGNED IN to read and post comments.
Click HERE to register!
