Gregory van der Wiel axed by Toronto FC after bust-up with boss and ‘will never play for team again’
The Netherlands international is to leave the MLS club less than a year after joining following an altercation with manager Greg Vanney
NETHERLANDS international Gregory van der Wiel will leave Toronto FC after less than a year following a bust-up with the coach.
The 30-year-old was sent home from the club's pre-season training camp in Irvine, California, in disgrace after an angry exchange with Greg Vanney, according to .
Reports suggest the pair had to be separated following an argument during a session on Sunday, leading to the defender being removed from the group.
After stories emerged that Toronto were lining up a replacement for the player they signed on a two-year deal, Van der Wiel confirmed his departure on .
The former Ajax youth product claims his desire to win was "too much" for the 2017 Major League Soccer Cup winners, who were ranked 19th out of 23 sides in 2018.
He wrote: "Dear Toronto. I called you home and I was so happy that I had finally found a place that felt like that.
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"Year one had ups and downs but I found my joy back and I could not wait to get started this new season. I was ready to give it all.
"Unfortunately year two will never come due to differences with the coaching staff.
"I just want to win and do that no matter what the consequences are.
"I guess that mentality was a little too much for them and they decided they do not need me for this season.
"Team-mates and fans, I will miss you guys."
In his only campaign, Van der Wiel made 34 appearances in all competitions for Toronto, many of them coming at centre-back.
Having started the 2010 World Cup final for Netherlands, Van der Wiel joined Paris Saint-Germain two years later where his career was expected to flourish.
However, unsuccessful spells at Fenerbahce and Cagliari followed, meaning he is now looking for his fourth different club in the last three years.