Is Toronto FC's latest signing a future MLS star or just another prospect? | OneFootball

At just 18, Lazar Stefanovic already has a CV that would make most veterans jealous. Captain of Canada's U-17 national team, MLS debut at 16, and now a solid contract with Toronto FC until 2028. The Canadian club is not just signing a defensive pillar, but also confirming its trust in homegrown players to construct the team in the long run.

Stefanovic is a seasoned young player

The name of Lazar Stefanovic has been circulating among Toronto FC fans for a while now. After his debut in 2022, aged 16, he made an impact by being so mature on the field. Now with a deal to 2028 and an option for 2029, the club is clearly indicating that they see the young defender as an investment for the long term.

Jason Hernandez, Toronto FC’s general manager, didn’t hide his excitement: "Laz has achieved many firsts as a young athlete, including making his MLS debut at just 16, making him the second-youngest player to ever appear for Toronto FC. We’re excited about his continued development and eager to see what the future holds."

And there's every reason to be encouraged. Stefanovic has already played 31 games for Toronto FC II in MLS NEXT Pro, starting 29 of them. That is, he's extremely comfortable with the club's system and the demands of professional football, even at just 18.

The Stefanovic signing is the latest in Toronto FC's continued policy of spending on academy products. The player marks the 37th academy player to sign for the club and the third of the season, after goalkeeper Adisa De Rosario and midfielder Markus Cimermancic.

How far can they stretch it, though, with this policy of playing academy players?

Looking back at near history in the MLS, there are those that have been able to develop excellent youth systems who have prospered. Take, for example, the Philadelphia Union, which built its academy into a talent-producing factory and won an MLS Cup final with its academy players right up front. Even Toronto FC has seen players like Jonathan Osorio and Richie Laryea become regular players after graduating through the academy.

On the other hand, putting too much emphasis on young players is risky. MLS demands a specific type of intensity, physicality, and tactics that youth leagues do not. Those are areas young prospects won't necessarily automatically develop. The process of developing takes time, and rushing the process might prove counterproductive.

If Toronto FC can successfully get Stefanovic's transition correct, he could end up being an anchor piece at defense for the team in years to come.

A promising future, but the working part starts here

The agreement is just a starting point. Stefanovic is now going to have to demonstrate he can uphold his promise and earn a starting position. The MLS is relentless, and bridging the gap between promising talent and established performer is tougher than it looks.

The 2024 season will tell a lot in regards to his place in the team. Will he receive regular playing time? Will he alternate minutes between the first team and Toronto FC II? Will he receive sufficient chances to develop without being thrust into the deep end prematurely?

Toronto FC fans have every reason to be excited about a highly skilled young center-back, but the question on everyone's mind is: can Stefanovic realize his potential? There is the talent. Now let us see if he can become the club's future defense leader.