Matias Laba has quickly become regarded as one of the league’s top midfielders, and now the Vancouver Whitecaps have taken the step to lock him down for the next several seasons.

The Whitecaps announced Thursday that the club has signed the 23-year-old Argentinian Designated Player to a multi-year extension. Laba, who joined the Whitecaps in 2014 via a trade with Toronto FC, has recorded a league-high 303 tackles since joining the Whitecaps. which is 65 more than the next closest player.

“Since joining the club in late February 2014, Matías has been exceptional both on and off the pitch,” said Whitecaps FC head coach Carl Robinson. “His skill, professionalism, and commitment are exemplary, and we are thrilled he will continue to be a foundational member of Whitecaps FC moving forward.”

Laba made 62 appearances for the the Whitecaps in the past two seasons, helping the team complete 26 shutouts, tops in the league for that period. Regarded as one of the top defensive-minded midfielders in MLS, Laba has also contributed one goal and two assists to the Whitecaps.

“I have truly enjoyed my first two seasons in Vancouver,” Laba said. “I am thankful to Robbo and the club for having faith in me and bringing me here. This club has become like my family and it has a lot of potential to do big things. I look forward to being a part of that.”

What do you think of Laba’s extension? Glad to see him remain with the Whitecaps? What do you expect from Laba in the coming seasons?

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