Larin Looking to Build on Fantastic First Season at Southampton

Written By John Carlo Villaruel | Published at July 10, 2026
Soccer Football - FIFA World Cup 2026 - Round of 16 - Canada v Morocco - Houston Stadium, Houston, Texas, U.S. - July 4, 2026 Canada's Cyle Larin comes on as a substitute to replace Tani Oluwaseyi REUTERS/Issei Kato

Cyle Larin has had a year to remember, shining for Southampton in the EFL Championship before playing a pivotal role for Canada in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

After his move to St Mary’s was made permanent just before the World Cup, Larin is ready to light up England’s second tier next season.

Canadian Shining at St Mary’s

Larin made the loan move to Southampton from Feyenoord in the Winter Transfer Window. To say he hit the ground running would be an understatement, as the Canadian became an instant hero with the fans after scoring the winner on his debut against Watford.

The Brampton-born forward would go on to score eight league goals to fire Southampton into the Championship play-offs. The Saints were controversially expelled, ending Larin’s chances of playing at Wembley Stadium, but it was a memorable first season in England for the now 31-year-old.

His reward for scoring nine league and cup goals in three months was a permanent contract at the English club. Larin signed on the dotted line just before the 2026 World Cup kicked off.

Canada’s Incredible World Cup Journey

The Southampton striker played a big role for his national team in the World Cup, scoring the nation's first goal of the tournament in a 1-1 draw with Bosnia & Herzegovina.

He followed that up by getting his name on the scoresheet in Canada’s 6-0 victory over Qatar, the nation’s first-ever win at a World Cup.

The Reds finished second in the group and beat South Africa in the Round of 32. Unfortunately, Larin and Canada’s journey came to an end with a 3-0 defeat to Morocco in the last 16.

Larin was a crucial player for Jesse Marsch throughout the tournament, playing four times and scoring two goals. His attention will now turn to Southampton as the club looks to book its place back in the English Premier League.

The Saints start the 2026-27 Championship campaign with a trip to Vicarage Road to face Watford in mid-August.