If you’re a Whitecaps fan, you already know the name. But if you’re just getting into the team or need a reminder of who’s really running the show out there — meet Ryan Gauld. The captain. The commander in midfield. The guy who makes things happen.

Gauld was born in Aberdeen, Scotland, and came up through Dundee United before heading to Portugal for a few years. He arrived in Vancouver in 2021 and quickly became one of the most important players on the pitch. He didn’t make a scene. He just played. And it didn’t take long for fans to catch on — this guy is the real deal.

In his first full MLS season in 2022, Gauld put up 8 goals and 9 assists. The next year? 11 goals and 12 assists. He was everywhere — setting up teammates, scoring when it mattered, and keeping the tempo right where the Whitecaps needed it. By the end of 2024, he had 34 goals and 43 assists in 111 league matches. It’s not flashy — it’s just consistently excellent.

He became captain in early 2024. Not because he talks the loudest, but because the whole team looks to him. He leads through effort and smarts. He runs. He defends. He plays the smart pass. He does the work. He’s that steady figure you can count on, whether the team’s pushing forward or holding a lead.

“I am playing higher up and more central,” he said in an interview. “That means I can have a stronger impact on the game and get on the ball more in the final third to score goals myself but also provide chances for the likes of Brian [White] or Fafá [Picault].”

Off the pitch, Gauld has become part of the Vancouver community. He’s made it clear he’s not just passing through.

“I love it here,” he said. “When the opportunity came to extend my contract and stay for a few more years, it was quite an easy decision.”

So next time you’re at BC Place and you’re watching things build from the midfield, you already know who’s behind it. Gauld is the captain for a reason — and as far as this club goes, he’s as important as they come.