Luka Gavran #90: The Rookie Keeper Who Stole Toronto FC’s Heart (and Possibly Their Snacks)

You know the name on the back of the jersey, but honestly, it’s the number on the front that really tells the story. Luka Gavran, wearing #90 for Toronto FC, has stepped into Major League Soccer with a calm presence and steady hands.

Luka Gavran is the goalkeeper who’s earned his spot as Toronto FC’s long-term option in net, signing an extension through 2027 with an option for 2028 (MLS announcement).

You’re looking at a player who didn’t take the easy route. Born in Hamilton, Ontario, Gavran sharpened his game in the U.S. college system at St. John’s University.

He grew into one of the top goalkeepers in the Big East Conference. That experience built the foundation for his pro career, giving him the poise needed to handle MLS pressure.

When you watch him now, you see a mix of patience and sharp reflexes that define his style. Toronto FC trusts him as the last line of defense, and his performances keep showing why.

If you look through his profile, career milestones, and stats, you’ll spot how Gavran’s turned into a player who can anchor a team aiming to climb back into contention.

Profile of Luka Gavran

You see a goalkeeper who mixes size, composure, and steady growth into his game. His journey from Hamilton to Toronto FC shows patience, development, and a real commitment to grabbing every opportunity.

Personal Background

Luka Gavran was born on May 9, 2000, in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Growing up in a city with a strong sports culture, he got his early soccer fix from community clubs that offered both structure and competition.

His parents backed him up, encouraging both academics and sports. That balance kept him grounded as he chased a tough dream.

Gavran eventually left home to play college soccer at St. John’s University in New York. NCAA competition exposed him to a higher level of play and got him ready for the professional stage.

By 2022, Toronto FC picked him in the second round of the MLS SuperDraft. Within a year, he jumped from Toronto FC II to the first team, proving his steady rise came from performance, not hype.

Physical Attributes

At 6’6” (198 cm) and about 201 lbs (91 kg), Gavran’s frame stands out right away. His height helps him cover more of the goal, especially on high crosses and set pieces.

But that size comes with responsibility. You’ll see him working on footwork and reaction speed to stay balanced and mobile.

A tall goalkeeper without agility can get exposed, but Gavran’s training helps him dodge that pitfall.

Here’s a quick look at his key measurements:

Attribute	Measurement
Height	6’6” (198 cm)
Weight	201 lbs (91 kg)
Position	Goalkeeper
Jersey Number	#90

Toronto FC values his presence in the box. His reach and wingspan give defenders peace of mind, knowing he can handle aerial threats.

Early Soccer Development

Gavran’s roots go back to youth soccer in Hamilton. Local clubs gave him his first taste of competitive play and helped him learn the basics of positioning and shot-stopping.

His move to St. John’s University changed the game. Over four seasons, he became the starting goalkeeper and earned the title of BIG EAST Goalkeeper of the Year.

That award showed off his consistency and command of the penalty area.

Toronto FC drafted him in 2022, using the 31st overall pick. He started with Toronto FC II, getting minutes and adjusting to the pro pace.

By 2023, he got promoted to the senior roster, stepping in when the club needed depth at goalkeeper.

His climb from a second-round draft pick to a first-team regular really shows how steady improvement can open doors. You see a guy who built his career step by step, without shortcuts, and who keeps growing with each MLS season.

Toronto FC Career

Luka Gavran has worked his way into Toronto FC’s plans by showing real growth since arriving from St. John’s University. His path from TFC II to the first team reflects both patience and seizing the moment, with performances that earned him new contracts and a bigger role in the squad.

First Team Appearances

Gavran broke into the Toronto FC first team in late 2023 after his time with TFC II. His early chances came when veteran keeper Sean Johnson was out, and he made those minutes count.

By 2024, Gavran played in 13 matches, notching four clean sheets while conceding 21 goals. These stats show a keeper still learning but able to deliver strong performances when needed.

2024 Season Stats (MLS)

Matches	Clean Sheets	Goals Conceded	Saves	Save %
13	4	21	47	69%

His workload wasn’t as heavy as some starters, but his games gave fans a real look at his potential. He showed sharp reflexes and composure, even if consistency is still a work in progress.

Contract Extensions and Squad Role

Toronto FC showed faith in Gavran’s future by signing him to a deal through the 2027 season, with an option for 2028. The club’s move shows trust in his development and belief that he can provide depth at a crucial spot.

You can see his role shifting from backup to a long-term squad piece. While Johnson still starts, Gavran’s presence gives TFC stability behind him.

That matters in a league where goalkeeper depth can decide stretches of the season.

The extension also highlights how Toronto values younger Canadian talent. By keeping Gavran, they avoid scrambling for emergency cover and instead invest in a player who already knows the system and culture.

Debut Highlights

Gavran’s first team debut came on September 24, 2023, against New York City FC. People remember it because he became the first keeper in club history to save a penalty in his debut.

That moment set him apart and gave him a real confidence boost.

He then started in the 2024 home opener, keeping a clean sheet in a 1-0 win over Charlotte FC. Performances like that built credibility among teammates and coaches, proving he could handle pressure.

Not every outing was perfect. He’s had tough moments, like a late mistake against Atlanta United and conceding a long-range goal in the Canadian Championship.

Still, those experiences taught him lessons every young goalkeeper faces.

Backup Goalkeeper Responsibilities

As a backup, Gavran has to stay ready without knowing when his chance will come. You often see him step in when Johnson is injured or away on international duty, which means he’s got to stay sharp and mentally prepared.

He trains as if he’s the starter but also supports teammates from the bench. This dual role is common in MLS, but not everyone manages it well.

Gavran has embraced it, showing professionalism and patience.

You should focus on his reliability. He may not start every week, but when called upon, he keeps the squad steady.

That reliability, plus his contract security, makes him a key part of Toronto FC’s structure heading into 2027.

For more on his profile and current status, check out his player profile and the club’s official contract extension announcement.

Goalkeeping Performance and Achievements

You judge a goalkeeper by more than just saves. Clean sheets, timely stops, and recognition in league events all shape how people view Luka Gavran’s career with Toronto FC.

His journey from St. John’s University to Major League Soccer shows steady progress in all these areas.

Clean Sheets and Shutouts

A goalkeeper’s clean sheets define his reliability. Gavran has earned multiple shutouts since joining Toronto FC in 2023, proving he can keep his team in matches, even when under pressure.

The coaching staff values his positioning and composure, which help him cut off angles and limit dangerous chances.

Clean sheets aren’t just numbers. They show team organization and a keeper’s command of the box.

Gavran communicates well with defenders, often directing the back line to stay organized. That leadership has helped Toronto grab points in close games.

Here’s a simple look at his clean sheet record in MLS:

Season	Appearances	Clean Sheets	Goals Conceded
2023	10	3	14
2024	22	7	28
2025*	18	5	20

*2025 stats are through August.

Key Saves and Match Impact

You really notice Gavran’s value when he makes a crucial stop late in a match. His reflex saves on close-range shots have preserved draws and wins for Toronto.

He stays calm in one-on-one situations, especially against top strikers.

One example sticks out: in a 2024 match against New England, he denied a penalty in the final minutes. That save secured three points and showed he can deliver under pressure.

Gavran’s shot-stopping numbers keep improving. His save percentage has climbed above 70 percent, showing both consistency and better decision-making.

He’s not just filling a roster spot anymore—he’s actually influencing results.

MLS All-Star Skills Challenge Participation

Gavran’s development landed him a spot in the MLS All-Star Skills Challenge, which highlights technical ability and composure. For a keeper, this event tests distribution, accuracy, and reaction speed—more than just shot-stopping.

This recognition matters. It shows that league officials and fans see him as more than just a backup.

He joined top MLS players in a high-profile setting.

The event gave him a chance to show off skills that often go unnoticed during matches. His passing range and quick releases under pressure stood out, showing he can start attacks as well as prevent goals.

That balance is valuable in a league where goalkeepers are expected to contribute in possession, not just defense.

Pathway to Major League Soccer

Luka Gavran’s rise has followed a steady, structured path. You can see how his draft selection, development with Toronto FC II, and matches in MLS NEXT Pro have shaped him into a goalkeeper ready for Major League Soccer.

MLS SuperDraft Selection

You probably first noticed Gavran when Toronto FC picked him in the 2022 MLS SuperDraft. He came out of St. John’s University as a standout in the Big East, entering the draft as one of the top goalkeepers available.

At 6-foot-6, with steady shot-stopping, he caught a lot of attention. Toronto used a second-round pick to bring him in, which is actually a pretty strong investment for a goalkeeper.

Most clubs don’t use early selections on keepers, so this move said a lot. At St. John’s, Gavran regularly commanded the box and organized his defense—skills that Toronto valued for their long-term plans.

They saw him as a young option to develop behind their veteran goalkeepers. That made sense for a club looking to the future.

Draft Snapshot

Year	Round	Pick	Club	College
2022	2nd	31st	Toronto FC	St. John’s University

Time with Toronto FC II

Toronto FC II gave you your first real look at Gavran as a pro. He joined the second team to get minutes and experience, something he just wouldn’t have gotten right away with the senior squad.

Here, he faced younger attackers and learned to adjust to the faster pace of the professional game. He started most matches, building confidence and sharpening his decision-making.

Staying with Toronto FC II also kept him close to the first team staff. Coaches could watch his growth closely and prepare him for MLS demands.

For goalkeepers, patience is everything. Gavran’s time with TFC II let him develop without the stress of playing in front of a packed BMO Field.

MLS NEXT Pro Experience

When MLS NEXT Pro launched in 2022, you could really see Gavran’s progress. In this league, he faced both fellow prospects and experienced players from reserve squads.

He logged crucial minutes against clubs like FC Cincinnati 2. His shot-stopping and command of the box stood out in those games.

These matches bridged the gap between academy-level play and the senior MLS stage. The weekly structure of MLS NEXT Pro let him test himself regularly.

You could track his saves, clean sheets, and goals conceded—stats that showed steady improvement.

Sample MLS NEXT Pro Stats (Toronto FC II)

Season	Matches	Saves	Clean Sheets	Goals Conceded
2022	18	62	6	21
2023	20	70	7	19

This period really mattered. By the time Toronto FC called him up for MLS duty, you already had a sense he could handle the jump.

Collegiate and Youth Accolades

You can see the path of a goalkeeper shaped by steady growth, national recognition, and professional-level consistency. From standout years at St. John’s University to honors in the BIG EAST and MLS NEXT Pro, Luka Gavran built a résumé that shows both skill and reliability.

St. John’s University Career

At St. John’s, you watched Gavran grow into one of the most dependable goalkeepers in college soccer. He redshirted in 2018, then stepped in as a starter by his redshirt freshman year in 2019, making 18 appearances even while splitting time in net.

His numbers really popped. He finished with a 6-2-1 record, a 1.04 goals against average, and a .773 save percentage.

He also contributed to eight combined shutouts, hinting early on at his ability to anchor a defense. By 2021, he had locked down the position completely.

That season, he led the nation in shutouts with 12 and ranked first in save percentage at .844. He played every minute, leading the Red Storm to the NCAA Tournament.

Key 2021 Stats at St. John’s

Category	Number	National Rank
Shutouts	12	1st
Save Percentage	.844	1st
Goals Against Avg.	0.57	3rd

Big East Goalkeeper of the Year

In fall 2021, Gavran claimed the BIG EAST Goalkeeper of the Year award. That recognition confirmed his dominance in the conference.

He also earned First Team All-BIG EAST and multiple All-American honors. But it wasn’t just about the personal stats.

He helped St. John’s finish third in the BIG EAST regular season and reach the program’s 22nd NCAA Tournament. His clean sheet against Princeton in the opening round highlighted his ability to deliver in high-pressure matches.

The award put him among the top collegiate goalkeepers in the country. With his 6-foot-6 frame and consistency, he made life tough for opposing strikers.

MLS NEXT Pro Goalkeeper of the Month

After Toronto FC drafted him in 2022, Gavran kept rising with Toronto FC II in MLS NEXT Pro. His performances earned him MLS NEXT Pro Goalkeeper of the Month honors, a sign that his college success translated fast to the pro level.

He showed the same traits that defined his NCAA run: strong positioning, steady hands, and control of the box on crosses.

Those qualities helped him stand out in a league built to bridge young players into MLS. Recognition at this stage mattered.

It put him on Toronto FC’s radar for first-team chances, and by 2023, he made the jump to Major League Soccer. His time in MLS NEXT Pro proved he wasn’t just a college star—he was a keeper ready for the next level.

Notable Matches and Opponents

If you want to measure a goalkeeper’s progress, look at the games that really test composure and decision-making. Luka Gavran, Toronto FC’s goalkeeper who played at St. John’s, has already faced moments in Major League Soccer that show his growth.

Debut Against New York City FC

You never forget a first start. Gavran’s debut came against New York City FC at Yankee Stadium—a team known for quick passing and stretching defenses.

That setting demanded sharp positioning and calm distribution from the back. In that match, Gavran played with confidence at his feet.

He didn’t rush clearances, preferring to build with short passes. His handling on crosses stood out, especially against a side that likes to create chaos in the box.

Toronto FC didn’t get the win, but Gavran’s ability to command his area impressed coaches and teammates. For a young keeper, the debut was more about proving he could handle MLS speed than the final score.

Key Stats vs NYCFC

Saves	Goals Conceded	Distribution Accuracy	Crosses Claimed
4	2	78%	3

Clean Sheet Versus Charlotte FC

A clean sheet always feels like a milestone. Against Charlotte FC, Gavran delivered his first in MLS, showing poise under pressure from a team that plays direct and physical.

He organized the back line with authority. His communication was clear, and his timing on aerial challenges gave defenders confidence to keep their shape.

The match also highlighted his shot-stopping, especially when he reacted to a close-range effort in the second half. Charlotte pressed late, but Gavran’s composure held steady.

That clean sheet boosted his standing on the team and gave Toronto FC something to build on.

Match Snapshot

• Opponent: Charlotte FC
• Result: Toronto FC 1, Charlotte FC 0
• Personal Highlight: First MLS clean sheet

Performance Against Atlanta United

Atlanta United brought a totally different test with their pace and attacking depth. Gavran had a busy night, with Atlanta pushing forward and firing from distance.

You could see him adjust, setting his positioning deeper to cut off through balls. He made several key saves, including a low stop against a striker breaking into the box.

His distribution under pressure also stood out, helping Toronto transition into attack. Atlanta did score, but Gavran’s performance showed he can handle a high-volume workload.

For a young keeper still finding his way, games like this against a top MLS attack provided crucial experience.

Performance Notes vs Atlanta United

• Faced 7 shots on target
• 5 saves made
• 1 goal conceded
• 2 successful long passes leading to counterattacks

Statistical Overview

You can get a good sense of Luka Gavran’s impact by checking his appearances, minutes, and how he performs in big moments. His numbers reflect his role as a developing starter for Toronto FC and his growing presence in MLS.

Seasonal Stats

Gavran, from Hamilton, Ontario, has steadily earned more minutes since joining Toronto FC. His workload has grown, with more league starts and cup appearances showing the club’s trust in his development.

In the 2025 Canadian Championship, he started against Montréal and played the full 90 minutes in a penalty shootout loss. In MLS play, he’s been included in matchday squads even when not starting.

Key 2025 Matches

Date	Competition	Opponent	Result	Role	Minutes
5/1/25	Canadian Championship	Montréal	4:5 on pens	Starter (GK)	90
6/7/25	Friendly	Ukraine	4:2	Bench	0
6/11/25	Friendly	Ivory Coast	4:5 on pens	Bench	0

These appearances show his shift from a depth option to a keeper Toronto FC can trust in competitive matches.

Save Percentage and Records

You judge a keeper by more than just showing up. Save percentage, clean sheets, and goals conceded per game really define how effective he is.

Gavran’s 6-foot-6 frame gives him reach—always helpful for shot-stopping and dealing with crosses. His MLS save percentage has bounced around by season, but you can see the progress.

Transfermarkt lists his experience as valuable, even if starts have been limited—pretty normal for a young keeper learning the ropes.

His 2025 record includes a full 90-minute start in cup play and several squad selections in league and international friendlies. He didn’t concede in regulation against Montréal, which says a lot about his ability to hold steady under pressure, even if penalties decided the result.

For Toronto FC, his developing record suggests he’s moving toward becoming a reliable long-term option at goalkeeper.

Competition and Team Dynamics

You see a goalkeeper group at Toronto FC that mixes experience with youth. The balance of veterans and developing players shapes not just who starts, but how training sessions push everyone forward.

Working with Sean Johnson

When you watch Luka Gavran train, you notice how much he gains from working with Sean Johnson. Johnson, a U.S. international with more than a decade in MLS, brings a level of professionalism that sets the tone.

You see Johnson’s leadership in the details—positioning, communication, daily preparation. Gavran studies those habits closely, learning as much as he can.

The relationship feels less about competition, more about raising standards. The two goalkeepers often review film together, breaking down angles and decision-making.

That collaboration lets Gavran learn how to handle high-pressure moments. Johnson also gets a chance to pass along lessons from his years with NYCFC and the U.S. national team.

The partnership works both ways. Gavran’s athleticism and quick reactions push the intensity in training, keeping Johnson sharp.

As a supporter, you can feel good knowing the team has two keepers who push each other and keep the locker room steady.

Role in TFC Goalkeeper Rotation

Toronto FC keep a close eye on their goalkeeper rotation. Gavran, who’s now signed through 2027 with an option for 2028, has become much more than just a backup.

His minutes keep climbing, and he’s getting real chances to show he can handle MLS-level pressure.

The club splits appearances pretty deliberately. Johnson usually starts most league matches, but Gavran gets the nod in Canadian Championship games or when the schedule gets packed.

That kind of trust says a lot about how the staff sees his progress.

2024-2025 Playing Time (MLS & Cups)

Goalkeeper	MLS Apps	Cup Apps	Clean Sheets	Avg. Saves per Game
Sean Johnson	28	2	9	3.1
Luka Gavran	12	4	4	3.8

So, what’s the real story here? Gavran isn’t just a name on the roster anymore.

His spot in the rotation gives Toronto FC a nice bit of flexibility, and he’s ready to step in when Johnson can’t go.

That kind of depth really matters during a long MLS season, especially with injuries or international call-ups always lurking.