Toronto FC are reportedly seeking to prematurely end the loan spell of Cassius Mailula at Wydad Casablanca, while the Moroccan giants are pushing for a permanent transfer at the end of the season.
The MSL club’s situation has become increasingly dire. With Lorenzo Insigne’s departure looming and the recent resignation of head coach John Herdman, who rarely utilised Mailula, the club faces a critical striker shortage.
Adding to Toronto FC’s woes is the departure of their 2024 top scorer, Prince Owusu, leaving Mailula’s parent club desperate to reinforce their attacking line.
However, Wydad, impressed by Mailula’s recent form – particularly his five assists in the last five league matches are determined to exercise the option to buy the talented forward.
The 23-year-old former Mamelodi Sundowns star Mailula joined Wydad on a season-long loan in August, with the Moroccan club having the option to make the transfer permanent at the end of the campaign.
While his initial spell in Morocco was slow, Mailula, under coach Rulani Mokwena, has blossomed into a key player, earning a nomination for the December Player of the Month Award at Wydad.
TORONTO’S EARLY RECALL BID FACES OPPOSITION FROM WYDAD
Mailula has showcased his playmaking abilities with five assists in 14 league games, adding a goal for good measure. Under coach Mokwena’s guidance, Wydad is striving to reclaim its past dominance after experiencing some turbulent times.
As Toronto FC prepares for the new MLS season with their first game in February, the club is actively exploring the transfer market to strengthen its squad.
Mailula’s impressive performances at Wydad have caught the attention of the Toronto front office, particularly given his limited impact during his initial spell with the club. With only two goals and one assist in eight appearances for Toronto, the club believes that a return to Canada could yield more significant results.
However, the Wydad management has firmly stated that they intend to honour the terms of the loan agreement despite Toronto’s insistence on an early return.
This standoff sets the stage for a potential tug-of-war between the two clubs as Mailula prepares to represent Wydad at the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup.
RELATED STORY: Why Mashego tips Cassius Mailula for permanent stay at Wydad
