There is some Canadian content in The Guardian’s Next Generation 2026 feature.
The British publication highlighted the top 60 young footballing talent born in 2009 and among them is Van Parker. The Real Salt Lake youngster helped lead the attack for Canada in Qatar at the FIFA U-17 World Cup last fall. The 6-foot-tall winger has four goals in eight appearances at that level and has been called up to the U-20 side.
Born in Las Vegas, Parker is eligible to play for Canada through his Canadian mother.
“He has the work-rate to force a high turnover and quickly get into dangerous zones to shoot,” The Guardian’s Jeff Rueter writes. “Parker’s lunging sprinting gait and ability to shoot from beyond 18 yards could shift him to a wide attacking role over time.”
Parker, who turns 18 in January, currently plays for Real Monarchs of MLS NEXT Pro. He has four goals in 12 appearances this season.
Also appearing on The Guardian list is Toronto FC academy player Jahmarie Nolan. The 16-year-old forward, who has yet to make a senior appearance, became the youngest player to earn a Jamaica cap in the 21st century this past weekend. Nolan registered an assist in the Reggae Boyz’ 2-0 win over El Salvador in CONCACAF Nations League action.
