USMNT Legend Tab Ramos: Josh Sargent’s Toronto Move Is a ‘Big Gamble’

Josh Sargent’s $22 million switch from Norwich City to Toronto FC has been branded a “big gamble” by former United States midfielder Tab Ramos, who warns the striker risks alienating fans and jeopardizing his national-team future.

Sargent, 26, finalized his five-and-a-half-year deal with Toronto on Friday after being frozen out by Norwich for refusing to play while the Championship club fights relegation. The transfer fee could climb to $27 million if performance incentives are met.

Speaking exclusively to Mirror U.S. Sports via Covers, Ramos—an icon of the USMNT’s 1990s generation—said the manner of Sargent’s exit tarnishes a once-positive reputation. “These things with players, it’s hard to end up with a good image after something like this happens,” Ramos said. “Josh took a big gamble. He wanted to leave a big club where he’s really loved… and fans don’t take well to things like that.”

Sargent cited a desire to be closer to family and reset his career in North America, yet Toronto has finished near the bottom of MLS standings in recent seasons. Ramos questions whether the forward can immediately rediscover scoring form after limited game time. “He’s coming from not playing much; I think it’ll be difficult,” Ramos added. “Can he come to MLS and immediately make that type of splash where he scores every week? I’m not sure about that.”

The move also clouds Sargent’s place in a crowded U.S. striker pool featuring Folarin Balogun, Ricardo Pepi, Haji Wright, and rising Patrick Agyemang. Ramos, however, insists the door is not closed. “Here’s the neat thing about forwards. The only thing you have to do is score goals. If you score goals, you’re always in the picture.”

Norwich supporters, once enamored with Sargent’s work rate and goals, now view him as a villain after his mid-season push for an exit. Whether Toronto’s bet reignites his career—or further sidelines him—will unfold over the remainder of the MLS campaign.