Vancouver Whitecaps: All-time starting XI part 2

The Vancouver Whitecaps have been in MLS for nearly a decade. But who have been their best players during that time? Here is the second part of the Whitecaps’ best-ever starting XI.

In part one of this series, I took a look at who the best defensive players in Vancouver Whitecaps’ history. But in the second part, I will now move onto the midfield and attack.

I chose to play a 4-2-3-1, leaving five midfielders and a striker for part two.

Here is the best midfield and attack in Vancouver Whitecaps’ history.

Defensive Midfield

Matias Laba

Matias Laba was an absolute destroyer in the midfield during his time with the Vancouver Whitecaps. He was the ideal player to play in front of an already stingy backline, and his tackling was among the best in MLS.

He was one of former manager Carl Robinson’s first acquisitions, and he proved to be a very good one. Many times, the manager told media that Laba was the first name to go on the team sheet. His presence and hunger in the middle of the park meant the Whitecaps always had someone hunting for the ball. And once he got the ball, he had the smarts to keep possession, something many of his teammates were unable to do.

Unlike some of the other players who have played in this position for Vancouver, Laba was not afraid to try and work something offensive. For example, on the 2019 Whitecaps, many players opt to pass the ball square or back to the defense, whereas Laba saw himself as the first step in an attack. With this mindset, he was also able to net himself three goals through his time in Vancouver.

The Argentine was a key part of the Whitecaps’ most successful time in MLS, helping them to the Conference semi-finals and their lone Canadian Championship.

Pedro Morales

Pedro Morales. Didn’t he play in the number ten role most of the time? Yes, you are correct on that one, however, he did appear in a deeper role occasionally, and when deployed there was very influential. Plus, I have to squeeze everyone in.

Morales is one of the biggest signings the Vancouver Whitecaps have ever made. Coming over from Malaga C.F. in La Liga, Morales arrived in Vancouver at a time when hope was surrounding the team. Upon his signing, he became the highest-paid player in the squad with the greatest calibre. By the end of his first game, the price was justified. Through a mere 30 minutes, Morales got himself a goal and an assist as the Whitecaps trampled over the New York Red Bulls in a 4-1 victory.

He and Laba created a potent midfield for Vancouver, which at times was able to take over games by themselves. The Chilean playmaker also became known for his wicked freekicks and ability to create scoring chances from seemingly anything. His skill and ability earned himself a nomination for the 2017 MLS Newcomer of the Year award. In the end, age began to take its toll on the two-time Whitecaps leading goalscorer and he left the club to return to his home country. However, during his time in Vancouver, he was one of the best players on the field and was a clear leader in the locker room, even earning himself the captain’s armband. He is also the only team captain to be included in the best eleven.