RYAN GAULD has signed a new four-year contract with MLS outfit Vancouver Whitecaps.
The perennial Scotland hopeful signed from Portuguese side Farense in 2021 and has been named the club’s Player of the Year for two seasons straight.
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Gauld was quick to praise the club and the city for helping him and his family settle.
Writing on X, formerly Twitter, he said: “It was an easy decision to sign on for another four years.
“Ever since my fiancée and I arrived here we’ve been made to feel so welcome and that we’re part of a great city and wider community.
“We’ve loved every minute and we’re looking forward to whatever comes next.”
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And Whitecaps supporters were equally delighted to keep hold of their star man.
One fan commented: “So happy to have a upstanding young man commit to four years. A great footballer and even more important a wonderful young man. Congratulations Ryan.”
Another replied: “The way you’ve started to show what the hype was all about makes this even better! Have been thoroughly impressed at how you have found your way in MLS. Cannot wait to cheer you on for 4 more years.”
Some supporters also saw the signing as a sign of a possible shift for Gauld on the international stage.
One said: “Just waiting for you to get that citizenship and have you join the Canadian Men‘s National Team.”
Another fan commented: “We’ve loved every minute, too. Here’s to more great memories! …and maybe the Canadian National Team?”
The 28-year-old last represented Scotland at under-21 level back in 2016 and is yet to debut for Steve Clarke’s senior side, despite consistent calls from fans for him to be included in squads.
His new contract would take him up to six years in Canada, long enough to acquire citizenship and switch international allegiances – particularly appealing given that they are due to co-host the World Cup in 2026, guaranteeing them qualification.
The contract news came only a day after Gauld explained that he wasn’t prepared to give up on his dream for playing for Scotland.
He said: “Every player has the ambition to play for their national team, no matter what point of the career they are at. That’s one of the main goals.
“If I was to ever be called up I would be delighted but at the same it’s not something I look for or expect.
“But obviously one of my dreams is to play for Scotland and to have that opportunity would be amazing.”
But assuming no senior call-up come for Gauld, who was capped at under-21 level, the possibility of representing Canada is sure to rise
He’s lived in the nation for three years and once he gets to five years, he can apply for Canadian citizenship.
Gauld added: “I’ve not given too much thought to Canada being from Scotland.
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“I don’t think I’ve even been in Canada long enough to qualify to play for them so it’s not really a topic that can be discussed.”
The ex-Hibs loanee said last year that he wouldn’t rule out declaring for Canada, but that it was a conversation to have in a few years.
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