The Nominees:
Andrés Cubas - Midfielder
Having made his debut with the club in June, Andrés Cubas quickly showed his unique defensive capabilities for the ‘Caps and played his part in the build-up of attacks with his wide range of passing. The Paraguayan international started 19 of his 20 appearances across all competitions in his first season with the club. In addition, Cubas led the team in interceptions (34) as well as tackles won (36), while also grabbing the game winner and his first ‘Caps goal against Los Angeles FC at BC Place on July 2.
Ryan Gauld – Attacking Midfielder
In his first full season in Vancouver, Ryan Gauld continued to play a key role in the ‘Caps attack by providing his offensive creativity in the final third. The Scotsman tallied eight goals as well as a team-high 11 assists across 29 starts and 32 appearances in all competitions this season, while leading the team in key attacking categories such as expected assists (5.31), expected goals (6.06), big chances created (7), shots on goal (25), chances created (50) and shots (75). Additionally, six of Gauld’s 19 goal contributions came on game-winning goals and three of those goal contributions helped the ‘Caps claim points from losing positions.
Ranko Veselinović - Defender
Ranko Veselinović enjoyed a career-year in his third season with the ‘Caps, becoming a reliable defensive piece on the backline thanks to his towering height, ability to read plays and awareness around the box. This year, the Serbian international started all 34 of his appearances across all competitions, the most he’s tallied in a single season during his career. Veselinović also tallied a goal against Real Salt Lake at BC Place on June 4 and led the ‘Caps in numerous statistics, including clearances with 178, the most in MLS play, blocks (23), successful passes (918) and touches (1444).