Canada’s soccer scene has seen tremendous growth over the last few years, largely due to the expansion of Major League Soccer (MLS) teams in the country and the rising quality of Canadian talent. With players increasingly moving abroad or to the MLS itself, Canada’s contribution to the league has become more significant. These players not only represent their club teams with distinction but also form the backbone of the Canadian national team, which has experienced a recent resurgence, including qualification for the 2022 FIFA World Cup after a 36-year drought. Here, we take a closer look at the top five Canadians currently plying their trade in the MLS.
- Jonathan Osorio (Toronto FC)
Jonathan Osorio is arguably the most accomplished Canadian player in MLS right now. A veteran midfielder for Toronto FC, Osorio has been a mainstay for the club since joining them in 2013. Born in Toronto, Osorio rose through the youth ranks of Toronto FC and established himself as a pivotal player in midfield. His versatility, vision, and technical abilities have made him one of the most dependable players in MLS.
Osorio’s defining moment came in 2017 when he played a key role in helping Toronto FC win the MLS Cup, capping off a historic treble-winning season (Supporters’ Shield, MLS Cup, and Canadian Championship). Over the years, Osorio has developed into a leader on and off the pitch, representing not only Toronto FC but also the Canadian national team. His ability to dictate play from midfield, combined with his knack for scoring important goals, has made him a fan favorite.
Despite battling injuries in recent seasons, Osorio continues to be an influential presence for Toronto FC, and his leadership is invaluable as the club navigates through periods of rebuilding.
- Alistair Johnston (CF Montréal)
Alistair Johnston has emerged as one of the most promising young Canadian defenders in recent times. After a stellar collegiate career in the United States, Johnston was selected by Nashville SC in the 2020 MLS SuperDraft. His performances with Nashville caught the eye of Canadian soccer fans and CF Montréal, who secured his transfer ahead of the 2022 season.
Johnston is a versatile defender, comfortable playing both as a right-back and a center-back, and he has become a key part of CF Montréal’s backline. His physicality, combined with his ability to read the game and make crucial tackles, has made him a standout player for his club and country.
Johnston’s rise to prominence also coincided with his increasing role in the Canadian national team. His performances in World Cup Qualifiers and the 2022 FIFA World Cup itself earned him plaudits, with many praising his maturity and composure at such a young age. As Johnston continues to develop, he is expected to be a key figure in MLS for years to come and a crucial player for the Canadian national team.
- Kamal Miller (Inter Miami)
Kamal Miller is another Canadian defender who has carved out a successful career in MLS. After starting his professional journey with Orlando City SC, Miller was acquired by CF Montréal, where he truly came into his own. Known for his physical presence, aerial ability, and leadership qualities, Miller was a critical component of Montréal’s defense before transferring to Inter Miami in 2023.
Miller’s ability to play both as a center-back and left-back gives his teams tactical flexibility, and his composure under pressure is an asset when playing out from the back. His performances for the Canadian national team, especially during their successful World Cup qualification campaign, showcased his growing stature as one of the premier Canadian defenders.
Since joining Inter Miami, Miller has continued to enhance his reputation. His performances alongside global stars such as Lionel Messi have only added to his experience and confidence. At just 26, Miller is entering the prime of his career, and both his club and country are set to benefit from his continued growth as a player.
- Lukas MacNaughton (Nashville SC)
Lukas MacNaughton is a name that has quietly gained recognition in the MLS circuit, especially after his move to Nashville SC. Born in New York City but raised in Toronto, MacNaughton represents the type of dual-national talent that has increasingly bolstered Canadian soccer. MacNaughton began his professional career in the Canadian Premier League (CPL) with Pacific FC, where his standout performances earned him a move to Toronto FC in 2022.
A central defender by trade, MacNaughton impressed with his consistent and reliable performances, leading to his switch to Nashville SC in 2023. His strong aerial presence, composure on the ball, and ability to read the game have made him a valuable asset for his team.
While MacNaughton is yet to become a regular for the Canadian national team, his consistent performances in MLS suggest that it is only a matter of time before he earns a more significant role in John Herdman’s squad. With his development trajectory, MacNaughton is poised to make a substantial impact at both the club and international levels.
- Djordje Mihailovic (AZ Alkmaar – Formerly of CF Montréal)
While technically no longer in MLS, Djordje Mihailovic deserves an honorable mention due to his recent contributions to the league and his decision to represent Canada internationally after spending the early part of his career with the U.S. youth teams. Mihailovic was one of the standout players for CF Montréal during his time in the MLS.
A versatile attacking midfielder, Mihailovic’s creative abilities, vision, and knack for delivering key passes made him one of the most exciting talents in the league before his move to AZ Alkmaar in the Eredivisie. His performances helped CF Montréal reach the MLS Playoffs and compete at the highest levels in the league.
While Mihailovic’s departure from MLS may seem like a loss for the league, it highlights the growing stature of Canadian soccer. Players like him who make the move to European clubs raise the profile of Canadian soccer abroad, and Mihailovic is expected to continue his rise on the international stage, now representing Canada.
Conclusion
Canadian players in MLS are no longer just role players but key contributors and stars in their own right. Jonathan Osorio, Alistair Johnston, Kamal Miller, Lukas MacNaughton, and others represent the bright future of Canadian soccer, both in the domestic league and on the international stage. With the continued growth of the sport in Canada and the success of Canadian teams like Toronto FC, CF Montréal, and the Vancouver Whitecaps, the MLS will continue to be an essential platform for developing and showcasing Canadian talent. As these players grow and evolve, so too will the ambitions of Canadian soccer, with a bright future ahead on both the club and national fronts.