Sebastian Giovinco posts emotional goodbye: "I was hoping to renew"

Sebastian Giovinco closeup vs. MTL

Sebastian Giovinco’s departure from Toronto FC became official Wednesday night, and the Italian superstar had some things to get off his chest on his way out of town.


The Atomic Ant took to Instagram to post a lengthy goodbye message to TFC fans alongside a photo of the Reds’ trophy celebrations after their 2017 MLS Cup win, expressing his love and gratitude to the city in moving terms – and throwing no small amount of shade on his now-former club’s leadership.


“It’s without hesitation that I can say that I wanted it to end differently,” wrote Giovinco, who is joining Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal FC in a transfer deal reportedly reaping $2-3 million for TFC.


“As I have always maintained, I was hoping to renew my contract and finish my playing career in a city that feels like home. It is here where my daughter was born and where my son took his first steps on a football pitch. A place my family loves to live and wanted to call home for good. Unfortunately, this desire of ours has clashed with a change in direction with current TFC management.”