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Until recently, Sebastian Giovinco's time with Toronto FC had only ever seen positive storylines. His first year in the league was spent winning every award and breaking every record he could get his hands on. It was a stretch that left no room for criticism.
Recently, however, conversation around Giovinco has taken on a different tone as the striker is mired in an eight-game scoreless streak. During that time, he has been visibly frustrated with both his play and that of his teammates. A lot of paranoia about the atomic ant has followed.
Reports that surfaced over the weekend certainly won't help any. Articles out of Italy linked the Atomic Ant to both Inter and AC Milan, while later reports indicated interest from Roma. This isn't the first time 29-year-old's name has been linked with a return to Europe, as Toronto FC turned away Barcelona during the winter transfer season.
Despite his recent downturn of form, Giovinco is still enjoying a productive second season in Major League Soccer. He has scored 8 goals and added 7 assists in 18 matches. Recently, he won the ESPY award for best MLS player, while also earning a spot on the MLS All-Star team.
Prior to joining Toronto FC, Giovinco spent his entire career in Italy, largely with Juventus. He moved on, however, after falling out of favour with the Turin club, and being played only sparingly.
The current rumours come amid news that Giovinco is hoping the earn back his spot on the Italian national team with Giampiero Ventura taking over the reigns. Giovinco was left off of Italy's Euro 2016 squad, with then manager Antonio Conte making it clear it was as a result of his decision to play in Major League Soccer.
With all that being said, Giovinco has made it clear time and time again that he is not interested in a Serie A return. He was never respected in Italy the way he has been since joining Toronto FC, and the Euro snub just seems to drive home that point.
Nonetheless, it will likely be another transfer window where Toronto FC management have to fight off suitors for Giovinco, as his play continues to draw global attention. However, all signs still point to the fact that Giovinco isn't going anywhere soon.