Toronto FC has strengthened its defense by adding Walker Zimmerman, a two-time MLS Defender of the Year, to its roster until the 2027-28 MLS season. The 32-year-old U.S. international has accumulated significant experience in Major League Soccer with FC Dallas, Los Angeles FC, and most recently Nashville SC, earning multiple accolades such as five-time MLS Best XI honoree, four-time MLS all-star, and two-time MLS Defender of the Year.
Hailing from Lawrenceville, Ga., Zimmerman has represented the United States in 45 matches and served as the team’s captain. Toronto FC sought to enhance its defensive line by not renewing the 2026 contract options for veteran defenders Kevin Long, Raoul Petretta, and Sigurd Rosted, necessitating the addition of a seasoned player alongside younger teammates.
In addition to Zimmerman, Toronto FC also secured Brazilian left back Matheus Pereira from CD Santa Clara, signing the 25-year-old until the 2027-28 MLS season with a club option for 2028-29. The team, under the leadership of first-year head coach Robin Fraser, improved defensively in the 2025 season, ranking tied for seventh in the league for goals conceded.
General manager Jason Hernandez remains focused on bolstering the team’s offensive capabilities, as Toronto FC struggled in scoring during the previous season. Zimmerman’s arrival is considered a significant defensive acquisition for Toronto FC, comparable to the impact Drew Moor had when he joined the club as a free agent in 2015.
Zimmerman, boasting 307 MLS regular-season and playoff appearances, led Nashville SC during its inaugural season in 2020. Despite his contributions, Zimmerman’s signing will not exceed Toronto FC’s designated player threshold, as the team utilized targeted allocation money for the acquisition. This strategic financial move allows Toronto FC to manage its salary cap effectively while strengthening its defensive lineup.