LA MLS Stars Headed to 2026 World Cup

LAFC and LA Galaxy players set to represent their home countries at the upcoming tournament.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 10:20pm

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The 2026 FIFA World Cup is just three months away, and several players from the Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) and LA Galaxy are expected to represent their home countries during the international competition. Key players like LAFC's Stephen Eustáquio (Canada), Mathieu Choinière (Canada), and Son Heung-Min (South Korea), as well as LA Galaxy's Joseph Paintsil (Ghana) and LAFC's Ryan Porteous (Scotland) will all be suiting up for their national teams.

Why it matters

The inclusion of these LA-based MLS stars on their respective national teams highlights the growing talent and global reach of Major League Soccer. As the World Cup comes to North America, these players will have the opportunity to showcase their skills on the world's biggest stage and potentially lead their countries to glory.

The details

LAFC midfielder Stephen Eustáquio, who was acquired on loan from FC Porto, will be a key player for Canada's national team. Teammate Mathieu Choinière, who joined LAFC on loan in 2025, will also represent Canada. LAFC's high-profile signing Son Heung-Min from Tottenham Hotspur will lead South Korea's attack, while LA Galaxy forward Joseph Paintsil will be a leader for Ghana. LAFC defender Ryan Porteous, signed from Watford FC, rounds out the LA-based players set to compete for Scotland.

  • The 2026 FIFA World Cup will kick off in three months.
  • National teams must finalize their 23-to-26 player rosters by May 30, 2026.

The players

Stephen Eustáquio

LAFC midfielder who was acquired on loan from FC Porto and is the vice captain of the Canadian national team.

Mathieu Choinière

LAFC midfielder who joined the club on loan in 2025 and has represented Canada at the U-20, U-23, and senior national team levels.

Son Heung-Min

LAFC forward who was signed from Tottenham Hotspur and is a star player for the South Korean national team.

Joseph Paintsil

LA Galaxy forward who was a key player in the team's 2024 MLS Cup victory and will represent Ghana at the World Cup.

Ryan Porteous

LAFC defender who was signed from Watford FC and will represent Scotland at the tournament.

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What’s next

National teams must finalize their 23-to-26 player rosters by May 30, 2026, ahead of the World Cup kickoff.

The takeaway

As the 2026 World Cup comes to North America, the participation of these LA-based MLS players on the global stage demonstrates the league's continued development and ability to produce world-class talent.