Nelson Palacio
TOR
Center Midfielder
Creative Playmaker
Jun 16, 2001 (25)
Right
5'11"
174 lb
Undergoes thigh surgery
Palacio has undergone surgery on his thigh and will miss the remainder of the 2026 season, according to his club.
Analysis: Palacio is heading to the sidelines and will be out for the time being, as the midfielder has received surgery on his thigh after struggling with the injury since joining the club. This will knock him out for the rest of the season, unfortunately, unable to debut with Toronto this season. He will now prepare for the 2027 campaign, as he should recover in time for the season opener, although any setback could take his return past the season opener.
Struggling in recovery
Palacio (lower body) has dealt with multiple setbacks from the muscle soreness that has prevented him from making his Toronto debut, and is still seeing specialists to determine the full extent of his injury, with club general manager Jason Hernandez saying "He's obviously a young player who has a lot to give. He had long layoff and was coming to us ready to get himself going. He joined us in a moment where he had a lot of downtime, came in and obviously passed the medical, and was having a tough time getting himself going." per Benedict Rhodes of Waking the Red.
Analysis: Palacio hasn't played since May, and it appears his full recovery will require at least a few more weeks as the team will want to be cautious for him to avoid further relapses. The midfielder could still be involved in the current MLS season, although his impact may be limited until the final weeks. Meanwhile, there will be more opportunities for Niklas Dorsch, Markus Cimermancic and Alonso Coello.
Still working back to fitness
Palacio (lower body) is still working his way back to fitness, according to coach Robin Fraser, per John Molinaro.
Analysis: Palacio's return continues to be handled cautiously by the club in order to avoid a setback, with his availability still likely a couple of weeks away. The extended timeline suggests a gradual reintegration process once he does return to full training. Further clarity on his availability is expected to come from the club as his recovery progresses.
Out with lower body injury
Palacio (lower body) will miss Wednesday's game versus New England Revolution, the MLS announced Tuesday.
Analysis: Palacio's Toronto debut will be delayed following his summer move from Real Salt Lake, and it remains to be seen when he'll be fit enough to play. This news means Alonso Coello will likely stay put in midfield, while Jonathan Osorio may also see his involvement increased.
Traded to Toronto
Palacio was acquired by Toronto FC from Real Salt Lake, the club announced.
Analysis: Palacio joins Toronto after spending the 2025-26 campaign on loan with FC Zurich, where he made 34 appearances across all competitions. The 25-year-old defensive midfielder has already accumulated significant MLS experience, recording 55 appearances over three seasons before his move to Switzerland. Known for his defensive work rate and physical presence in midfield, he is expected to add stability and ball-winning ability to the center of the pitch. Palacio will occupy a U-22 Initiative roster slot once his medicals and International Transfer Certificate are finalized.
Select Player
Search and select a player to compare