Toronto FC II’s Mo Babouli is looking to make his mark with the first team as one of six TFC II-contracted players selected to Toronto FC’s preseason camp.
The Mississauga native has risen through the ranks quite quickly following his dominant performance in League1 Ontario’s inaugural season back in 2014.
Babouli netted 26 goals in all competitions for the Kia Toronto FC Senior Academy team and won the 2014 League1 MVP and Golden Boot award.
He was signed to a TFC II contract a year later. Playing in his first season in the USL, Babouli encountered stronger and more experienced competition. Even so, those that have watched Babouli closely have seen first-team potential.
Training with the squad last season and now in preseason camp is clear that the 23-year-old is on the right path.
“I’m trying to soak it up and try to understand the structure laid out by the coaching staff as much as I can so when whatever happens, whether I remain with the first team or head back to TFC II, I have a full understanding and I can help other people with their roles as well,” said Babouli prior to The Reds’ third preseason match in California.
“I’m focused on understanding my role and the multiple positions I may be asked to play.”
Just like any young player would do, Babouli finds himself taking notes from his more experienced teammates.
“It’s good to see how they go into preseason and how their mentality is, how they treat their bodies.”
“Just taking the little things that you don’t see from the younger guys with no experience,” he added.
The TFC II forward has an opportunity that many can only dream of: a chance to watch and take notes from Sebastian Giovinco, one of the best players in the world in his position.
“I always want to watch the guys that play similar positions that I do and see how they do things such as moving on and off the ball and the opportunities that they take.”
Babouli is making the most out of his own opportunities.
He scored in Toronto FC’s 4-0 win against California State University Fullerton.
Two days later he made a terrific play to set up Jordan Hamilton in the team’s 3-0 win over the Ventura County Fusion.
The young Canadian will surely make it difficult decision for Greg Vanney and co. to leave him off the first team roster if he continues to perform in this manner.
