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7mo ago

Whitecaps Lock In All-Star Goalkeeper Yohei Takaoka Through June 2027

The deal locks in Vancouver's starter through the calendar transition to support a push for trophies.

Nov 22, 2025; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Whitecaps FC goalkeeper Yohei Takaoka (1) runs to block a shot on goal by the Los Angeles FC mduring the second half at BC Place. Mandatory Credit: Anne-Marie Sorvin-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • The club confirmed Thursday that Takaoka's extension runs to June 2027, covering MLS's abbreviated transition at the start of 2027.
  • In 2025 he was an MLS All-Star and Goalkeeper of the Year finalist, led the league with 13 regular-season clean sheets, and started all 39 MLS games.
  • Across all competitions in 2025, he posted a club-record 16 clean sheets, tied for the league lead with 18 regular-season wins, and conceded the second-fewest goals at 38.
  • Since arriving in 2023, Takaoka has 35 shutouts in 129 starts for Vancouver and has started 100 of the club’s past 102 regular-season matches.
  • Vancouver also signed homegrown defender Mihail Gherasimencov through the 2027-28 season with an option for 2028-29 and traded Jayden Nelson to Austin FC for US$1.25 million in GAM plus a first-round MLS SuperDraft pick.