Major League Soccer isn't just a retirement home anymore. That old stereotype is dead and buried, and we have Lionel Messi to thank for it. His arrival at Inter Miami changed everything about how the world views American soccer.
Young talents are flooding into MLS now, seeing it as a real place to develop their careers. The league has become a global stage, and players know it. With the 2026 World Cup coming to North America, the spotlight has never been brighter.
Scottish defender Ryan Porteous is one player banking on that visibility. The 26-year-old Los Angeles FC defender thinks playing against Messi and other superstars week in and week out could earn him a ticket to the World Cup with Scotland.
Playing Against World-Class Stars Every Week
Porteous made the jump from Watford to LAFC, and he's loving the challenge. He's already faced off against players like Chucky Lozano, Miguel Almiron, and Thomas Muller. Soon he'll be lining up against Messi and Luis Suarez.
"It's not as if it's the stereotype of the league four or five years ago," Porteous told Sky Sports. "These are world-class players that can still play." He pointed out that Heung-Min Son joined MLS at 32, right around what could be his peak years.
For anyone betting on Scotland's World Cup chances, Porteous gaining this level of experience could be significant. He's battle-tested against top talent in conditions similar to what teams will face in 2026.
Scotland's World Cup Hopes
Porteous has already earned thirteen caps for Scotland under manager Steve Clarke. He's been part of the squad since Clarke took over in 2019, and he's got nothing but praise for his coach.
"The gaffer switched to a back four in World Cup qualifying and found ways to win games," Porteous said. He thinks Clarke deserves more credit for Scotland's recent success.
The defender believes the heat and humidity of American stadiums will actually work in his favor. "I think I'll be used to the heat," he said, noting that Scotland's preparation team will have the squad ready, but his MLS experience gives him an edge.
Playing behind a World Cup-winning goalkeeper like Hugo Lloris at LAFC hasn't hurt either. Porteous says learning from these experienced champions has been invaluable, and their professionalism off the field has impressed him just as much as their play on it.
With MLS now streamed globally on phones, tablets, and computers, national team coaches can watch every match. Porteous is counting on that visibility to keep him in contention for Scotland's 2026 World Cup roster.
