It has been 11 years since Sebastian Giovinco first stepped onto the field for Toronto FC. Giovinco ushered in a new era for Toronto, one that fans now fondly remember as the club’s glory years.
‘The Atomic Ant’ made a bold career decision when he agreed to sign with TFC. At the time, he played for Juventus, who won three straight Serie A league titles. The Scudetto winners had long factored Giovinco into their plans, as they previously sent him on loan to Parma for more playing time.
However, the Italian decided to pursue an opportunity in MLS.
Giovinco arrived to Toronto in February, 2015, where fans and club representatives greeted him at the airport with a strong ovation. Anticipation surrounded his debut, as supporters hoped he could change the club’s fortunes.
TFC took on the Vancouver Whitecaps at BC Place in Vancouver, British Columbia on Mar. 7, 2015. Fans received a glimpse of Giovinco’s talent and the excitement he would bring.
‘The Atomic Ant’ played 79 minutes in his TFC debut and assisted on Jozy Alitdore‘s equalizer in the 32nd minute. Toronto went on to defeat Vancouver 3-1.
Head Coach Greg Vanney Reacts to Sebastian Giovinco’s Toronto FC Debut
Toronto FC head coach Greg Vanney shared his thoughts on Sebastian Giovinco’s debut and how he settled into the match. Vanney noted that the Italian improved as the game progressed and said his 2nd half performance stood out.
Vanney acknowledged that many players struggle to adjust to Major League Soccer. However, he said Giovinco adapted as the match continued and was satisfied with how he fit into his system.
“I thought Sebastian [Giovinco] was good, especially getting into the second half. I think in the first half, as a lot of players that are coming here [to MLS], they have to adapt a little bit to the league,” Vanney told reporters during his post-game media availability. “Obviously, the defenders were a lot more physical , they were closing pretty quickly. And so for him, it was just getting a feel for it.”
He added: “The turf is a little different, so I think he was getting a feel for it and he really found the game I thought in the second half and had a much greater impact.”
Giovinco Wins MLS MVP and Golden Boot in First Season with TFC
GettyTORONTO, ON – MAY 07: Sebastian Giovinco #10 of Toronto FC is presented with the MLS Audi Golden Boot Award as leading scorer for the 2015 season prior to an MLS soccer game against FC Dallas at BMO Field on May 7, 2016 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)
Giovinco lived up to expectations in Toronto, much to the relief of the fan base familiar with the club’s past disappointments.
‘The Atomic Ant’ delivered a strong first season with TFC, scoring 22 goals and adding 16 assists. His impact on Toronto earned him the 2015 MLS MVP award. The Italian also won the 2015 MLS Golden Boot after leading the league in goals.
While Toronto FC fell short of their ultimate goal in 2015, the club rebounded and reached the MLS Cup final in 2016 and 2017.
Giovinco’s first season in Toronto was a sign of things to come. He played a key role in both playoff runs, particularly in 2017.
Giovinco helped lead TFC to the 2017 MLS Cup. That victory marked a historic achievement, as Toronto completed a domestic treble by also winning the 2017 MLS Supporters’ Shield and Canadian Championship.
On This Day in 2015: Sebastian Giovinco Makes His Toronto FC Debut