Sebastian Giovinco looked out at the BMO Field crowd from a private suite. It was late May and as TFC fans roared in approval, he placed his right hand over his heart and raised his other arm in appreciation.



Then, he took his seat next to TFC president Bill Manning and watched as TFC lost 2-1 to the San Jose Earthquakes. A harsh reality became apparent. Giovinco, TFC’s greatest player, was making his first public appearance at BMO Field since being transferred to Saudi club Al-Hilal.



After hearing TFC forward Jozy Altidore had invited Giovinco to the game and, knowing the star never had the chance to say goodbye to fans, Manning received clearance from Giovinco’s agent Andrea D’Amico to get in touch directly. Plans were quickly made.



“I just wanted him to know that he’s always welcome here,” said Manning.



Giovinco remains close with many of his former teammates. Despite stating in an Instagram post that “It...