TORONTO - Canada coach Jesse Marsch has named a strong 26-man squad for the FIFA World Cup, with captain Alphonso Davies included despite concerns over the hamstring injury he suffered during Bayern Munich’s UEFA Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain.
Davies’ selection comes as a major boost for Canada, which had feared its star fullback might miss the tournament. Marsch confirmed the 25-year-old would join the squad in Edmonton as he continues his recovery. Leading scorer Jonathan David has also been named, alongside a host of experienced internationals. “We really think this is our strongest group,” Marsch said, expressing confidence despite recent injury concerns within the squad.
Canada’s goalkeeping department features Maxime Crepeau, Owen Goodman and Dayne St. Clair, with Marsch yet to decide on his first-choice goalkeeper. The defensive unit includes Moise Bombito, Derek Cornelius, Alphonso Davies, Luc de Fougerolles, Alistair Johnston, Alfie Jones, Richie Laryea, Niko Sigur and Joel Waterman.
Selected midfielders are Ali Ahmed, Tajon Buchanan, Mathieu Choiniere, Stephen Eustaquio, Marcelo Flores, Ismael Kone, Liam Millar, Jonathan Osorio, Nathan Saliba and Jacob Shaffelburg. The attacking line-up comprises Jonathan David, Promise David, Cyle Larin and Tani Oluwaseyi. One notable absentee is veteran forward Junior Hoilett, a key member of Canada’s 2022 World Cup squad. The 36-year-old misses out as Marsch continues to prioritise pace and high-intensity football. Davies and Jonathan David remain the biggest names in a Canadian squad widely regarded as the nation’s most talented ever. Marsch, who previously managed RB Leipzig and Leeds United, believes the team is well-equipped to compete on the world stage.