2015 MLS Season: 10 Players Poised for Breakout Years

Gilberto, Forward, Toronto FC

Oct 18, 2014; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto FC forward Gilberto (9) shoots against the Montreal Impact at BMO Field. The Impact tied FC 1-1. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports

Gilberto’s got a bone to pick or two this year.  After being one of TFC’s sole bright spots in an ultimately disappointing 2014, Gilberto’s success was sandwiched between the arrivals of Michael Bradley and Jermaine Defore as well as Giovinco and Jozy Altidore’s acquisition a year later.  He was stripped of his DP status in order to make room for Giovinco.

If anyone in the league has a reason to play with a chip on his shoulder, it’s Gilberto.  There is a tad of uncertainty surrounding the Brazilian, who may not even begin the season with TFC, and may end up as trade bait during the transfer season.  Gilberto’s breakout season will likely materialize more out of desperation than anything; he’s going to be fighting for a starting spot week in and week out come March, as well as being on display for every team he plays against.   Just ask Danny Wellbeck, being in the doghouse tends to turn opponents into potential buyers.

Next: Jack McInerney