Josh Sargent has quickly made an impact since joining Toronto FC.
At 26, Sargent is leading Toronto (3-2-1, 10 points) into a home game against FC Cincinnati (2-4-0, 6 points) on Saturday.
His header in the 85th minute helped Toronto secure a 3-2 comeback win over the Colorado Rapids last Saturday, earning him a spot on the MLS Team of the Matchday. Toronto is currently unbeaten in their last four matches (3-0-1).
Though he has played in only three matches, Sargent has already recorded one goal and one assist.
He joined Toronto in February from Norwich City for $22 million, a figure that could rise to $26 million. This is among the highest transfer fees paid by an MLS team. His contract extends through the 2030-31 MLS season and has already shown positive results.
“Josh excels in all aspects needed from a forward,” said Toronto coach Robin Fraser. “We notice his skills each time he plays, and his performance improves with more minutes. His style is impressive, especially in tight spaces, and his timing when moving forward is excellent.”
On Friday, Toronto announced that midfielder Djordje Mihailovic will be out for around eight weeks due to a fractured pelvis. He has one goal and two assists in five matches this season.
FC Cincinnati coach Pat Noonan praised Sargent’s abilities.
“He is a player who will have a significant impact going forward,” Noonan said. “He’s a goal scorer and a great teammate, and his journey is just beginning. We’ll need to find ways to limit his influence.”
Cincinnati lost 4-2 to the New York Red Bulls last Saturday and has been outscored 15-9 this season.
Cincinnati’s shift from a 5-2-1-2 formation to an aggressive 4-3-3 against New York was notable. However, Noonan remains flexible regarding strategy.
“We evaluate our team and what’s working,” Noonan said. “We also consider our opponent. Nothing is off the table for our preparation.”
Earlier this season, Toronto defeated Cincinnati 1-0 on March 8, with Daniel Salloi scoring in the 86th minute.