MLS champion Toronto FC confirmed the re-signing of defender Eriq Zavaleta on Tuesday.
The news was hardly a surprise. Coach Greg Vanney said Monday that finishing off the deal was a formality. And Zavaleta had remained on the club website roster despite his free-agent status after last season.
“Since joining Toronto FC, Eriq has developed into a core member of this team as well as a leader both on and off the field,” Toronto GM Tim Bezbatchenko said in a statement. “He has been an important part of our club for the past few years and we are happy to ensure he is back this season as we defend our championships.