Scottish international footballer Ryan Porteous admitted to feeling starstruck after meeting Will Ferrell, the part-owner of Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC), following his transfer to Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States. The move marked a significant step in Porteous’s career, where he now competes alongside high-profile players like Heung-min Son and Hugo Lloris.
From Scottish Football to the MLS: Porteous’s Transition
After leaving Hibernian, Porteous’s move to LAFC places him among notable footballers who have taken their talents to the MLS. Growing up watching movies featuring Will Ferrell, such as “Elf,” “Anchorman,” and “Step Brothers,” Porteous confessed that meeting the actor was initially nerve-wracking but quickly became comfortable. The defender described the actor as “brilliant” and highlighted how involved Ferrell remains with the team.
“You’d think someone that famous and successful wouldn’t be too emotionally invested in the team, but he’s always in and around the stadium, the hotel before the game, and on the pitch after the game,”
Porteous said.
Impressions of a World-Class League and Teammates
Porteous recognizes the rising quality of the MLS, challenging outdated views of the league. He spoke highly of the standard and competitiveness he encounters. He noted facing players like Chucky Lozano, Miguel Almiron, and Thomas Muller, and anticipates competing against global stars Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez.
He stated,
“These are world-class players who can still play. We’ve got Son, who at 32 years old could be coming into the peak of his career. The standard and the levels of the games are extremely intense, especially in that heat.”
Looking Ahead: Scotland Recall and World Cup Aspirations
While settling into MLS life, Porteous hopes to earn a recall to the Scotland national team. Scotland, under manager Steve Clarke, has already secured qualification for the upcoming FIFA World Cup hosted in the USA, Canada, and Mexico this summer. Porteous last represented Scotland during a Nations League match against Greece the previous year.
Porteous Reflects on Meeting Ferrell
At the start, I was a bit starstruck because of all my favorite movies, but he is a genuinely great guy and hilarious.
— Ryan Porteous, Defender
Meeting a world-renowned actor who takes an active role as LAFC’s part-owner adds a unique dimension to Porteous’s MLS experience. As he adapts to the competitive landscape and aims for international success, his encounter with Will Ferrell remains a memorable moment in this new chapter of his career.
