Whitecaps re-sign G Yohei Takaoka after career year

After their stellar run to the MLS Cup Finals, the Vancouver Whitecaps are keeping the band together.

The Whitecaps have put pen to paper on a new contract with goalkeeper Yohei Takaoka, keeping him in Vancouver through June 2027, the club announced Thursday.

The financial terms of the deal were not reported.

Takaoka, 29, enjoyed a strong season for the ‘Caps, making 46 starts in all competitions and recording a club-record 16 clean sheets. He also led MLS in clean sheets with 13.

“I’m delighted to extend my contract with the Whitecaps,” Takaoka said in a press release. “I’ve felt the love and support throughout the club since day one, and I can’t wait to go again. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone back at BC Place. Our best season is yet to come, and let’s go win every trophy next year.”

Over 34 MLS games, the Japanese shot-stopper allowed 38 goals for a 1.12 goals-against per 90. He registered 83 saves and finished with a 72.1 save percentage, helping him earn an MLS All-Star nod and a spot as a finalist for the MLS goalkeeper of the year award.

Takaoka joined the Whitecaps in 2023 from the Yokohama F. Marinos in the J1 League in Japan. Since coming to MLS, he has made 129 starts across all competitions for Vancouver and is second in clean sheets during the MLS era with 35.



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