Much had been expected of him
When Alejandro Pozuelo joined Toronto FC as one of their Designated Players, it spelled the end of a difficult period for the midfielder.
His decision to move to Major League Soccer had provoked the ire of the fans of his former club, Genk of the Belgian Jupiler League, who reacted furiously to his decision.
In their defence, the Spaniard had reportedly insisted that he would remain with the club, before reversing his decision after learning of Toronto’s interest, but the behaviour of some sections of the support was harsh at best.
"Toronto has a new hero!" #TFCLive pic.twitter.com/iEuE5q4F1e
— Toronto FC (@TorontoFC) March 30, 2019
All that was in the past though as he made his MLS debut at the BMO Field on Friday evening against New York City FC, and it will remain in the past after he enjoyed the sort of debut usually reserved for dreams.
Toronto won the game 4-0, extending their perfect start to the MLS season, and Pozuelo scored twice as well as assisting striker Jozy Altidore with the opener.
His first goal was a Panenka in front of the expectant home fans, while his second was the sort of goal only scored by people with the first name Lionel and the second name Messi.
The Spaniard began his career with LaLiga side Real Betis, before spending one season with Swansea City. He later moved to Rayo Vallecano before moving to Genk in 2015.