The Whitecaps are looking to bolster their attacking lineup in the upcoming summer transfer window, which ends on August 8. Concurrently, they are aiming to persuade Fafa Picault, who has recently shown strong offensive form, to remain with the team.
Rumors have circulated about Picault’s potential move to an East Coast team since a report on July 27. On Saturday night, he significantly increased his market value by single-handedly leading the Whitecaps from a 2-0 deficit to a 3-2 lead. Picault scored twice and provided an assist, although the Houston Dynamo ultimately scored twice late to snatch a 4-3 victory at B.C. Place.
Picault appeared fatigued by questions regarding the trade rumors after the game but was willing to speak to the assembled media outside the locker room.
Today, Inter Miami CF held its first-ever Special Olympics Unified home match at Chase Stadium. The 2024 Inter Miami CF Special Olympics Unified Team played against Chicago Fire’s Special Olympics Unified Team, resulting in an exciting 2-2 draw. The event exemplified Inter Miami CF’s motto, “Freedom to Dream,” emphasizing inclusivity and diversity through soccer, showcasing its ability to bring communities together.
We are dedicated to ensuring that people from diverse backgrounds have access and inclusion in the sport of soccer, which is why we established a partnership with Special Olympics four years ago. Today marks a momentous occasion as our Inter Miami Special Olympics Unified Team competes at home for the first time, and doing so at Chase Stadium is truly remarkable,” stated Chris Allan, VP of Fan Strategy & Experience at Inter Miami CF.
“I simply put it aside,” he remarked. “I pay no mind to what others say. I love this game and give my all every time I step onto the field. Whether it’s scoring multiple goals, one goal, or making an assist to help us win, that’s what counts. I focus on my role and continue to cherish the game.”
He genuinely enjoys the city and the team, mentioning how his cats adore the scenic views of the North Shore mountains. Vancouver’s natural beauty has even shifted his preference away from urban settings.
“It’s stunning. You have a great mix of downtown life and city vibes, while just minutes away you’re in beautiful nature. I’m not even a hiking fan, but I’ve gone out for hikes here, so that says a lot,” he shared. “This locker room is one of the best, if not the best, in my career. I love all the guys, and I get along well with everyone on and off the field. It’s been fantastic since I arrived. Coming to work and interacting with these guys every day has been really easy.”
He has now scored in three consecutive games, bringing his season total to eight goals, just behind Brian White (12) and Ryan Gauld (9), and has four assists. His performance on Saturday came as Gauld was sidelined due to a knee injury sustained in the first half, potentially causing him to miss the MLS All-Star game on July 24.
Losing Picault would be disappointing for the Caps, as CEO Axel Schuster has been searching for a player to ease defensive pressure on White and Gauld.
Picault has filled that role and has not hidden his desire for more playing time. He persistently presses forward and aims to align with the team’s defensive strategies.
“I do what’s necessary. I’ll do the dirty work if required. When it comes to scoring, I do that too. I believe I’ve shown consistency over the past six or seven years in the league,” he explained. “I play my role with the minutes given. As a player, decisions are not up to me. I remain professional and give my best.”
Schuster had mentioned before Saturday’s game that there would likely be movement during this transfer window, both incoming and outgoing. The window for Canadian clubs opened last week and runs until August 8, while for U.S. clubs, it extends to August 14, allowing intra-league transfers.
Saturday’s result ended the Whitecaps’ six-game unbeaten streak and dropped them to fifth in the Western Conference. However, just two months ago, questions were being raised about the team’s future after a loss to Inter Miami on May 25, where they struggled offensively and faced criticism.
The Caps rebounded with six wins in their next nine games, along with a draw. Before Saturday’s match, Vancouver held a crucial top-four spot in the Western Conference, ensuring a home playoff game.
“There can be rapid changes,” Schuster noted before the game, almost prophetically. “We must remember that before every game. We aim to exceed expectations and need to get almost everything right… I’m extremely pleased with where we stand right now. I think we’ve performed exceptionally well in recent weeks.”
Vancouver’s performance this year mirrors their past few seasons, showing playoff-worthy quality and the ability to defeat any team in the league on any given night.
This season, however, mere competitiveness isn’t enough; they seek playoff success, having never reached the conference finals or MLS Cup in their MLS history.
That’s why this transfer window holds such significance for the club.
Reports about Picault’s potential departure coincide with uncertainty surrounding defender Javain Brown, who has been absent from recent game-day rosters.
When asked about rumors regarding 20-year-old Edier Ocampo possibly joining Vancouver from Atlético Nacional, a speedy and attacking-minded fullback, Schuster remained guarded, stating he would deny rumors if false. He aimed to add speed and skill to the wing during this window.
This could involve Deiber Caicedo, whose loan with Colombian side Junior FC concludes at month’s end.
Should Picault depart, which the Whitecaps have shown a willingness to allow, such as honoring Julian Gressel’s trade request last season, it would diminish their offensive options.
As a team, the Caps rank 10th in both goals scored and conceded per 90 minutes, highlighting the need for another player to divert defensive attention from White and Gauld, their primary offensive threats.
The MLS has adjusted roster rules, making it easier for teams to sign higher-caliber and younger players. Teams can now sign up to three Designated Players and three U-22 initiative players without previous age restrictions or two DPs and four U22 players, potentially receiving up to $2M in General Allocation Money.