Toronto Fc Acquire Chilean Centre-Back Benjamín Kuscevic on Loan from Fortaleza Esporte Clube

Toronto FC Boosts Defending Roster with Chilean Acquisition

Toronto FC has made a strategic move by acquiring centre-back Benjamín Kuscevic on loan from Fortaleza Esporte Clube for the 2026 Major League Soccer (MLS) season. The addition of Kuscevic, who previously played in Brazil and Chile, is seen as a significant boost to Toronto FC’s defending capabilities.

Kuscevic’s Career Highlights

Benjamín Kuscevic, 29, joins the club after spending three seasons with Fortaleza Esporte Clube. His time there was marked by consistent performances across various competitions, including Campeonato Cearense, Série A, Copa Libertadores, and Copa Sudamericana.

However, it’s his tenure at Brazilian top-flight clubs Coritiba Foot Ball Club (2023) and Sociedade Esportiva Palmeiras (2020-23) where Kuscevic truly shone. At Palmeiras, the defender was a key player in one of the most successful periods of his career. He won eight titles with the club during this time, including the Copa Libertadores (2020, 2021), Copa do Brasil (2020), Recopa Sudamericana (2022), Campeonato Brasileiro (2022), Campeonato Paulista (2022) and Supercopa do Brasil (2023).

Integration and Team Dynamics

Toronto FC General Manager Jason Hernandez expressed optimism about Kuscevic’s integration into the team. “We are happy to welcome Benjamín to Toronto FC,” he said. “Benjamín has established himself as a strong defender and steady presence in prominent leagues in South America and in international competition.”

Kuscevic will occupy an International Roster Slot, and he is set to be added to the roster pending the receipt of his medicals and the International Transfer Certificate (ITC). The club hopes that Kuscevic’s experience and skills can help solidify Toronto FC’s defense during a challenging 2026 MLS season.

Chilean National Team Experience

Beyond his club career, Kuscevic has represented the Chile Men’s National Team on 14 occasions. His senior team debut came in an international friendly against Honduras on November 21, 2018. He was also part of the Chile squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign in June 2025.

The addition of Kuscevic not only strengthens Toronto FC’s roster but also brings a wealth of international experience to the team. With his proven track record and adaptability, he is expected to quickly fit into the team dynamics and contribute positively to the club’s goals for the upcoming season.