Richie Laryea to Vancouver Whitecaps on loan
By Anthony Rotz
Once again, Richie Laryea is returning to MLS on loan.
Right back Richie Laryea is nearing another loan move to MLS from Nottingham Forest. The Canadian will remain in his home country, this time with Vancouver Whitecaps. Laryea is coming off a loan spell with Toronto FC, which expired June 30th. Vancouver faced competition from Toronto and DC United for Laryea’s services, but ultimately prevailed.
Laryea, 28, was drafted by Orlando City in 2016 but established himself in MLS with Toronto FC. It was in Toronto where Laryea was moved into defense from midfield and hasn’t looked back since. Laryea quickly became one of the league’s best right backs, combining industrious defense with inventive passing. Laryea’s first stint with Toronto saw him make 83 appearances, scoring eight goals and making seven assists from the right flank. Often times the defender was the conduit for creativity, unleashing teammates and launching line-breaking passes. Laryea’s successful transition right back caught the attention of the Canadian Soccer Association, leading to Laryea’s first international selection. Since his first call up, the 28-year-old has become a regular, making 45 appearances and becoming tactically a key player.
As Laryea’s prominence grew, Europe came calling. Laryea moved to Championship club Nottingham Forest during the 2021 winter transfer window. The move proved ill-fated. The Canadian international would only make five appearances as Forest won promotion to the Premier League.
Once in the Prem, Laryea was no longer in Forest’s plans, and the right back was loaned back to Toronto FC. His second would prove as successful as the first and Laryea immediately reclaimed his spot amongst the league’s best fullbacks. A profile Vancouver is in the market for.
Vancouver’s Got a Plan
The Whitecaps have embarked on a large overhaul during the summer transfer window. The team has completed some radical moves, but none seem as advantageous as the arrival of Laryea.
Vancouver is in the market for right back following the trade of Julian Gressel to Columbus. In Laryea, they are getting a ready-made replacement who is on par with Gressel from an offensive perspective.
The club intends to purchase Laryea following the completion of his loan and is confident in completing a deal. Laryea, and his Canadian international status, appeal to the front office who intend to market him as a “face of the franchise” following his permanent transfer.