The Vancouver Whitecaps FC announced Monday that it has exercised contract options for seven key players ahead of the 2026 Major League Soccer (MLS) season, including striker Thomas Müller, Canadian international Ali Ahmed, and US international Sebastian Berhalter. Other players with options picked up include goalkeeper Adrían Zendejas, defender Mathías Laborda, and midfielders J.C. Ngando and Ralph Priso.
Axel Schuster, the Whitecaps’ sporting director, emphasized the importance of maintaining continuity in the squad.
“We have been building this team for several years, and most of our players will return in 2026 to continue the solid foundation we’ve established. Preparations for preseason and roster planning have been underway for months, and we are ready to hit the ground running in January,” said Schuster.
The club confirmed it will not exercise the contract option for defender Belal Halbouni, though negotiations are ongoing. Talks also continue with goalkeeper Yohei Takaoka, whose contract expires at the end of the year.
Other departures include goalkeeper Max Anchor, defender Mark O’Neill, and forwards Nicolas Fleuriau Chateau and Daniel Ríos, whose purchase option was declined.
“We thank Max, Mark, Nicolas, and Daniel for their time with the club and wish them the very best,” added Schuster.
