Cyle Larin is heading into the 2026 FIFA World Cup with renewed confidence after rediscovering his best form at Southampton.
The 31-year-old forward had faced uncertainty over his place in Jesse Marsch’s Canada starting XI after a difficult spell at Mallorca and an underwhelming loan at Feyenoord. But his move to Southampton has changed the picture at the perfect time.
Since joining the Saints in February, Larin has scored nine goals in 22 appearances, helping the club reach the FA Cup semi-finals and the English Championship play-off final against Hull City at Wembley on May 23. His resurgence comes just before Canada begin their World Cup campaign on home soil.
Canada will face Bosnia and Herzegovina, Qatar and Switzerland in the group stage, with their opening match set to be played in Toronto. For Larin, the chance to represent his country at a home World Cup is a career-defining moment.
“It’s very exciting to play in a home World Cup for the fans and for the players,” Larin told FIFA. “We can’t wait until the time comes.”
The forward expects the atmosphere in Toronto to be unforgettable, especially for Canada’s first match against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
“I think it will be exciting just to build-up to all of it,” he said. “The city is already busy. I think it will be times ten.”
Player profile
Cyle LarinCanada are preparing for their second consecutive World Cup, and Larin believes the national team now belongs on the biggest stage. He pointed to the quality of opponents Canada are facing and the results they have achieved against top-ranked teams as proof of their progress.
He also credited Marsch with giving the squad more belief and helping them play to their strengths. Canada’s speed and athleticism have become central to their identity, with players such as Alphonso Davies, Tajon Buchanan and Moise Bombito giving the team a dangerous edge in transition.
“You see in the games we play now, we’re really going after the game, and we’re not afraid to,” Larin said.
That confidence has changed Canada’s mentality. After reaching the Copa America semi-finals in 2024, Larin believes the squad should aim high at the World Cup.
“We’re not just there to be there,” he said. “We’re there to win something.”
For Canada, much will depend on whether key players can deliver under the pressure of a home tournament. For Larin, that responsibility is nothing new. As one of the national team’s most experienced attackers, he knows expectations will be high.
But after reigniting his club career at Southampton, he appears ready for the challenge.
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