18-year-old Edmonton soccer star heading to World Cup for Tunisia

Rayan Elloumi hated hockey. Growing up on Edmonton's south side, his mom Houda had to bribe him with Safeway sweet buns just to get him to lace up skates. Soccer was different entirely — he fell in love with it early.

By his teens, Elloumi was playing for BTB Academy, one of Canada's most recognized youth clubs. He eventually moved west to join the Vancouver Whitecaps academy and made his Major League Soccer debut in 2025 against the Columbus Crew. Now, at just 18, he's been called to Tunisia's World Cup squad.

Eloumi holds dual citizenship — born in Canada but eligible to play for Tunisia through his heritage. At a pre-tournament camp earlier this year, he auditioned for both Canada's Jesse Marsch and Tunisia's Sabri Lamoushi. The choice wasn't easy. "It's a big blessing because you can play for both countries, but at the same time it's a little unique because, no matter who you choose, you always feel like you're letting the other one down," Elloumi said.

He chose Tunisia. If he plays even a single minute in a World Cup match, he'll be permanently tied to the Tunisian national team and lose all eligibility for Canada. The decision was his alone — no pressure, just the opportunity to play at a World Cup as a teenager.

Eloumi joins a small group of Edmonton-raised players who've represented other nations on the world stage.