Victor Vazquez signs new multi-year contract with Toronto FC

The 31-year-old playmaking midfielder was named to the MLS Best XI last season after scoring 10 goals and adding 20 assists in all competitions. The Spaniard came to Toronto from Mexico’s Cruz Azul.

Toronto FC rewarded Spanish playmaker Victor Vazquez with a new contract Wednesday.

The MLS champions tore up Vazquez’s old deal and added a year’s term to the new one.

It’s in keeping with other recent moves to lock up talent. Fullback Justin Morrow and centre back Chris Mavinga signed similar multi-year extensions in late February and early March, respectively.

In his first season with the MLS club, Vazquez was named to the league’s Best XI as he helped trigger a potent Toronto attack. The 31-year-old midfielder finished second in the league in assists with 16 including a league-leading six game-winning assists.

Vazquez collected 10 goals and 20 assists in 39 appearances in all competitions, including the insurance goal in Toronto’s 2-0 win over Seattle in the MLS Cup final. He also won MLS player of the week honours four times.

Smooth on the ball, Vazquez has the skills and vision to help unlock defences.

“He makes guys around him better,” TFC captain Michael Bradley said last season.

A product of the Barcelona youth system, Vazquez made his name with Club Brugge and was named Belgian Footballer of the Year for the 2014-15 season.

The Spaniard came to Toronto from Mexico’s Cruz Azul. He said his family was not happy in Mexico but has taken to Canada.

Vazquez earned $700,000 U.S. last year, according to the MLS Players Association. That ranked fourth on the team, behind designated players Sebastian Giovinco, Bradley and Jozy Altidore.

A back issue has limited the Spaniard’s play so far this season. He was forced to leave in the 53rd minute of Toronto’s season-opening loss to Columbus on March 3.