What happened to ‘Scottish Messi’ wonderkid as Scotland confirm Euro 2024 squad

He explained the origin of the comparison: “It was a little bit strange and it came about just because I’m small and left-footed. That’s the comparison and again it was made only after about four or five games for United,” via the Daily Record.

Gauld, after a five-year stint with Sporting Lisbon which included various loan spells in Portugal and a season back in Scotland with Hibs, finally settled at Farense in 2019 after being let go by the Lisbon giants.

At Farense, he helped the team clinch promotion and made his mark in Portugal’s top league. In a significant career move in 2021, Gauld signed with MLS side Vancouver Whitecaps, entering a league where he now competes against the actual Messi, now of Inter Miami.

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Despite his standout performances in Vancouver, Gauld remains overlooked by the Scottish national team. Earlier this year, after renewing his contract with the Whitecaps, Gauld expressed his ongoing desire to represent Scotland.

“Every player has the ambition to play for their national team, no matter what point of the career they are at. That’s one of the main goals,” he stated.

Although uncapped at the senior level, Gauld, who has played for Scotland’s under-19 and under-21 teams, remains hopeful: “If I was to ever be called up I would be delighted but at the same time, it’s not something I look for or expect. But obviously one of my dreams is to play for Scotland and to have that opportunity would be amazing.”

Gauld has dismissed the idea that he might change his international allegiance, as he could potentially qualify for Canadian citizenship in a few years. He said: “I’ve not given too much thought to Canada, being from Scotland. I don’t think I’ve even been in Canada long enough to qualify to play for them so it’s not really a topic that can be discussed.”

Meanwhile, Ben Doak and Ross McCrorie, who are yet to earn their first caps, have been included in Clarke’s preliminary 28-man squad for the tournament. James Forrest, the experienced winger, has also been recalled nearly three years after his last appearance. The squad will be reduced to 26 following the friendly match against Finland on June 7.

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