Major League Soccer isn't just a retirement home for aging stars anymore. Things have completely changed since Lionel Messi arrived at Inter Miami. Now the league is packed with talent, and it's giving players a real shot at international glory.
One player banking on this new reality is Ryan Porteous, the 26-year-old Scottish defender at Los Angeles FC. He believes facing world-class players like Messi every week will help him secure a spot in Scotland's 2026 World Cup squad.
The timing couldn't be better. With the World Cup coming to North America in 2026, MLS is suddenly under the global spotlight. Coaches from around the world are watching, and Porteous knows it.
Playing Against the Best in MLS
Porteous, who joined LAFC from Watford, isn't just facing has-beens. He's lining up against proper world-class talent week in and week out. "I was playing against Chucky Lozano, Miguel Almiron, Thomas Muller, and will be coming up against Messi and Luis Suarez soon," he told Sky Sports.
The defender makes a brilliant point about the league's current standard. He mentions Heung-Min Son, who at 32 could be hitting his peak. These aren't players winding down their careers—they're still operating at the highest level.
Having Hugo Lloris, a World Cup winner, behind him in goal doesn't hurt either. Porteous says learning from these experienced pros has been invaluable, both on and off the pitch.
Scotland's World Cup Hopes
Porteous has already earned thirteen caps for Scotland under manager Steve Clarke. He's clearly in the national team picture, and he thinks his MLS experience gives him an edge.
For one, he'll be used to the heat and humidity that comes with summer football in North America. That could be crucial when the World Cup kicks off. Playing regularly against South American talent in MLS also prepares him for the tournament's intensity.
Scotland qualified for the World Cup under Clarke's guidance, and Porteous has nothing but praise for his manager. "He never takes the credit for it," Porteous says. "He always gives it to the players."
For bettors keeping an eye on Scotland's World Cup prospects, Porteous's development in MLS is worth monitoring. His experience against top-tier opposition could make him a key defensive option for the Scots. With the tournament on home soil for MLS players, expect several league stars to step up their game as 2026 approaches.
The bottom line? MLS is now a legitimate proving ground for international players. And Porteous is determined to prove that facing Messi and company week after week has made him World Cup ready.
