VANCOUVER — Jayden Nelson wanted to make a big impression in his return to Major League Soccer.
With four assists and a goal in his first two games for the Vancouver Whitecaps, he's done just that.
“I just want to be relentless and fearless. And I think if I go into every game being fearless and relentless, then the universe will obviously reward me," Nelson said Friday.
The 'Caps acquired the 22-year-old Canadian midfielder from Norway's Rosenborg in January, bringing him back to the league where he started his professional career.
A native of Brampton, Ont., Nelson came up through the Toronto FC academy. He signed with Toronto's MLS club in January 2020 and played in 50 games for the team before moving to Europe in 2023.
He tallied eight goals and nine assists in 44 appearances across all competitions for Rosenborg, but feels like he has more to show.
“I’m just so hungry for what’s to come and what I can achieve here and the opportunity that I have that I just want to be relentless and just show everyone that I can fulfil my potential," Nelson said.
"Everyone knows that I have talent but no one’s seen it, or seen in a long time what it can actually be. So I want to show not only fans and coaches but myself that I’m the real deal.”
Nelson's first appearance for the 'Caps came last Sunday when he contributed a goal and three assists as Vancouver thumped its regional rivals the Portland Timbers 4-1 to open their MLS campaign.
He then showcased his talents at B.C. Place on Thursday, chipping in another helper as the Whitecaps blanked Costa Rican club Deportivo Saprissa 2-0 to advance to the CONCACAF Champions Cup round of 16.
While his offensive prowess may have stunned some onlookers, Nelson's longtime friend Ralph Priso wasn't surprised to see him speed up the sidelines and slice crisp crosses into the box.
“I've known Jayden a long time. He's always had qualities different than other guys, speed, technique and just kind of creativity and spontaneity," said Priso, another 'Caps midfielder who came up through the TFC academy.
"He just kind of tries things and does his own thing sometimes. And I think you need that. You need that in certain players and certain spots.”
After struggling at times in Europe, Nelson has returned to MLS wanting to put all his experience to use, Priso added.
“(With the Whitecaps,) I've seen a Jayden who has a new lease on life," he said.
"I think he's taking this opportunity of a fresh start really well. He’s happy again, excited to play. And just taking pleasure in playing football again.”
The fresh perspective comes at a critical point for the young athlete — and Canadian soccer.
Everyone knows the 2026 World Cup is just around the corner, Nelson said, and he wants to be a part of it.
"I’ve been in and out of the national team," he said. "And now it’s really time to buckle in and take this serious. So I’m doing everything I can off the pitch, on the pitch. That’s what you’re seeing now.”
Nelson and Priso will have another opportunity to showcase their talents Sunday when the Whitecaps (1-0-0) host the L.A. Galaxy (0-1-0) in their first home game of the MLS campaign.
The matchup will pit the former TFC players against a familiar face — Galaxy head coach Greg Vanney, who coached both when they were in Toronto.
“It’s kind of bittersweet, playing Greg Vanney again," Nelson said. "He’s a guy that kind of introduced me to the professional scene and kind of gave me a chance. It’s going to be exciting to play him.”
The Galaxy hoisted the MLS Cup in December, but started their season with a 2-0 loss to expansion side San Diego on Sunday.
L.A.'s playing style isn't that different than the one Vancouver's new coach, Jesper Sorensen, is looking to implement, Priso said.
"I'd say it's actually pretty similar to Jesper. Possession based, positional, wants to control the game with the ball more than without," he said. "So I think it'll be an interesting game.”
L.A. GALAXY (0-1-0) AT VANCOUVER WHITECAPS (1-0-0)
Sunday, B.C. Place
THE HISTORY BOOKS: The Galaxy hold a 16-11-7 edge in meetings between the two sides. Last season, L.A. downed Vancouver twice, including a 3-1 decision at B.C. Place on April 13.
HOME FIELD ADVANTAGE?: The Whitecaps struggled at B.C. Place last season, posting a 6-7-4 home record. Vancouver has not won its first home game of the MLS campaign since 2018 when they beat CF Montreal 2-1.
BUSY BODIES: Sunday's matchup will be Vancouver's fourth match in 10 days as the club balances both MLS action and the CONCACAF Champions Cup.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 28, 2025.
Gemma Karstens-Smith, The Canadian Press
