The creative trequartista who conquered the Major League Soccer landscape
In short: Sebastian Giovinco arrived in North America as a high-profile star, but he became something much more. Beyond his reputation as a versatile attacker, the Italian playmaker transformed Toronto FC, leading them to historic domestic success and leaving as the club's all-time leading goalscorer.
Born in Turin on 26 January 1987, Giovinco’s career was defined by his technical versatility. Known as a trequartista—a creative player operating behind a striker—he was often compared to the legendary Alessandro Del Piero. After developing in the Juventus youth system from age nine, he navigated a complex career involving loan spells at Empoli and Parma before returning to Juventus to win multiple Serie A titles.
In 2015, Giovinco made a high-profile move to Toronto FC, signing a five-year deal with a reported $7 million annual salary. This made him the highest-paid player in Major League Soccer at the time, surpassing Orlando City's Kaká. His impact in Canada was immediate and profound. During his four seasons, he secured three Canadian Championships and a historic domestic treble in 2017, which included the club's first MLS Cup and Supporters' Shield.
His individual accolades mirrored his team's success. Giovinco earned the MLS MVP Award, the MLS Golden Boot, and the MLS Newcomer of the Year Award. In 2018, he also earned the CONCACAF Champions League Golden Ball during a tournament where Toronto secured second place. By the time he departed Toronto in 2019, he had established himself as the club's all-time top goalscorer.
Beyond North America, Giovinco represented Italy, earning 23 caps and participating in UEFA Euro 2012 and the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup, where he scored his only international goal. His later career saw him find success in Saudi Arabia with Al Hilal, winning the AFC Champions League in his first year.
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