Canada midfielder Marcelo Flores ruled out of World Cup after ACL injury
Canada has officially unveiled its 26-player squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, with Bayern Munich star Alphonso Davies named as the headline player.Head coach Jesse Marsch announced the roster following a training camp held in Charlotte, North Carolina.
The announcement was also marked by promotional displays in Toronto, where banners of the national team were unfurled from the CN Tower, symbolising growing national anticipation for the tournament.Davies, who is recovering from a hamstring injury, did not participate in the final training camp sessions.
While he is expected to join the team in Edmonton for a pre-tournament friendly against Uzbekistan, the coaching staff has indicated that he may not be fully match-fit for Canada’s opening World Cup fixture.
Marsch emphasised that player fitness and recovery were key considerations during selection, as several squad members have recently returned from injuries.The squad includes a blend of experience and youth, featuring 13 players who also participated in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.Notable returning players include Jonathan David and Liam Millar.There are also 13 newcomers, such as goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau, defender Moïse Bombito, and forward Tani Oluwaseyi.The roster spans multiple leagues across Europe and North America, reflecting the growing international presence of Canadian talent.Canada’s goalkeepers include Owen Goodman and Dayne St.Clair alongside Crépeau.
The defensive unit features players such as Alistair Johnston, Derek Cornelius, and Richie Laryea, while the midfield includes Stephen Eustáquio, Tajon Buchanan, and Jonathan Osorio.Up front, Canada will rely on Jonathan David, Cyle Larin, and Oluwaseyi among others.Ahead of the World Cup, Canada will face Uzbekistan in Edmonton and Ireland in Montreal.In the group stage, they will compete against Bosnia-Herzegovina, Qatar, and Switzerland as they aim to advance beyond the group phase.