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When Toronto FC traded backup goalkeeper and MLS veteran Jon Conway to the Chicago Fire, for a third round, 49th overall pick in the annual MLS SuperDraft, no one could have predicted what an absolute success their choice would turn out to be. Conway’s departure saw the selection of the young Ecuadorian, Joao Plata, who arrived via a loan deal with MLS. Aron Winter, Bob de Klerk and Paul Mariner’s last minute dealing may have been a minor detail in an otherwise unimpressive talent pool, but signing Plata has not only proved to be a massive success, it has also shown a level of competency in player management by a new Toronto FC coaching staff.
Joao Plata, who came to MLS from the Barcelona youth system in Ecuador – not to be confused with the famous blaugrana from Spain – before getting playing time with LDU Quito. His combine performance was truly impressive, scoring 6 goals overall. His stock was high, and signing him would surely require a high draft pick – if it wasn’t for the one crucial risk that would need to be taken; yes, standing at a meagre 5’2”, Joao Plata’s tiny frame proved a deterrent for MLS coaches across the league. It would take some faith in the young winger’s skill to get the most out of him. Aron Winter took the gamble.
The faith that Aron Winter has shown in Plata has been repaid tenfold. Plata has been Toronto’s most exciting player, providing pinpoint crosses, creating chance after chance, and scoring his third career goal in MLS play against Real Salt Lake. His performances in the Champions League have been equally fortuitous, his two goals against Real Esteli the highlight of the path to qualification.
As Plata’s stock continues to rise, one looming question remains; what is Joao Plata’s intention for next season? Will the young Ecuadorian phenomenon play for Toronto FC next year?
Aron Winter, when asked if maintaining Plata was a priority, said, “Yeah of course, it’s always a priority, but I’m not thinking about it at this moment. In the future? We’ve got another couple months to make our roster, but one thing’s for sure; Plata’s still young, we’ve given him the opportunity and we’re going to try to keep him.” He also added, “His development over a certain period has been great.”
It has become very obvious how highly Toronto FC rate Plata, and with Winter’s intention to keep him clear, the spotlight is now on Joao himself. I asked Plata after the Real Salt Lake game what he plans to do for next year, to which he responded, “I’m still not sure, but I can only say that I have to continue working hard, and if the coach wants me, I’d be honoured to stay. I more than welcome the opportunity.”
Winter and Plata, it seems, are on the same page – Winter wants to keep Joao Plata, and Plata would welcome the chance to stay. For now, both Winter and Plata look towards their next encounters, against Tauro FC. Regarding the Champions League matchup, Plata said, “I think that it will be a very important game, because we are away, and because for myself and the entire team, the mentality is that we need to bring a victory back home from Panama. We will give everything on that field.”
Toronto FC take on Tauro FC tomorrow and one thing is clear; Joao Plata, influence ever-growing, will fight for a full three points as Toronto embark through the Champions League group stage.
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