After a tough first half of the MLS season, Toronto FC showed genuine signs of life after the summer break for the FIFA World Cup and played itself into post-season contention. 

But the Reds' hopes were dashed in last weekend’s road loss to Atlanta United, a result that officially eliminated them from the playoff picture and extended their post-season drought to six years. 

As a consequence, Toronto enters its final game of the 2026 regular season, away to the Philadelphia Union on Saturday, with little to play for except some pride. At the same time, most TFC players have plenty to play for in this dead-rubber match. 

For starters, no less than 16 members of the current squad will either be out of contract, entering the option year on their deals or at the end of their loan spells once the season concludes. 

GM Jason Hernandez faces some very tough decisions in the off-season about who to re-sign, whose contract options should be exercised, and which loan players should be signed on a permanent basis. Saturday’s game could play some role in helping inform him in his decision-making process as to how to rebuild his roster ahead of the 2027 MLS Sprint Season that kicks off in February. 

“Obviously, people are let down, but I do think that from what we've seen, that this pride factor is an important thing. And there are guys who have different things to play for, whether it's contracts or longevity or starting positions; there's always something to play for,” coach Robin Fraser said this week. 

Saturday's match in Philadelphia also allows Fraser to juggle his starting lineup and give opportunities to members of his squad who have struggled for minutes this year. One such player is Richard Chukwu, an 18-year-old defender who is one of the team’s brightest prospects. 

Chukwu has been limited to just three MLS appearances (one start) totalling........

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