Sean Johnson’s next MLS save will be with Toronto FC. (USA TODAY Sports)
By Michael Lewis
FrontRowSoccer.com Editor
It’s official. New York City FC captain and goalkeeper Sean Johnson has signed with Toronto FC.
It was announced on Friday.
Johnson, who is in Los Angeles with the U.S. men’s national team for two friendlies this week, backstopped NYCFC to the 2021 MLS Cup crown.
“We would like to thank Sean for all the hard work and leadership he has given to this club both on-and-off the field,” NYCFC sporting director David Lee said in a statement. “Sean has been a leader and a fantastic professional since the day he arrived and ultimately played such an important part in winning the club our first MLS Cup in 2021.
“Sean has also been a role model and we have been proud of the work he has done in the community and in his role on the Executive Board of Black Players for Change. Sean has given everything to this Club since he has arrived, but we understand his decision to take on a new challenge and to do what he feels is best for him and his family. We wish him nothing but the best in the next stage of his career.”
NYCFC traded for Johnson prior to the MLS season, and he solidified himself its No. 1 keeper ahead of the 2017.
Since then, Johnson played 206 matches, tallying 18,660 minutes, while accumulating 60 clean sheets across all competitions.
“Sean has established himself as one of the best goalkeepers in MLS, given his club and international career,” Toronto FC head coach and sporting director Bob Bradley said in a statement. “Sean continues to demonstrate his elite shot-stopping ability, athleticism, and decision-making in important moments and the biggest games.”
Johnson, who has made 10 appearances for the USMNT, will first meet City, when it plays at BMO Field on April 29.
