In a significant move for Canadian football, the Canada Soccer Association (CSA) has announced the appointment of former Leeds United and RB Leipzig manager Jesse Marsch as the new head coach of the Canada men’s national team. Marsch’s contract will run through July 2026, covering the upcoming Copa América, Concacaf Gold Cup, and the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which Canada will co-host with the United States and Mexico.
“This team is going to be something that the entire Canadian community is going to be so excited about and ready to support. We’re going to play with power and inspiration, and we’re going to go for it.”
During the announcement made via a Facetime call, Marsch expressed his excitement to lead the Canadian team, stating that he desires to unite the soccer community in Canada to support the national team’s efforts on and off the pitch.
Marsch’s hiring immediately intensifies the rivalry between the men’s national teams of Canada and the United States. The former U.S. Men’s National Team head coach candidate will now be leading Canada’s charge, including matches against the USMNT in the lead-up to the 2026 World Cup.
Upcoming Challenges and Preparations
Canada is set to face a challenging group in the upcoming Copa América, where they will compete against World Cup champions Argentina, as well as Peru and Chile. Marsch’s first games in charge will be June 6 against the Netherlands and June 9 against France, as the team prepares for the high-profile tournament.
The Canada Soccer Association expressed confidence in Marsch’s ability to lead the national team, stating, “It is an absolute honour to represent and lead the Canadian Men’s National Team in our preparation for a home World Cup. The combination of the new leadership inside of Canada Soccer coupled with the potential of this dynamic player pool has inspired me, and I am ready and eager to take on this massive responsibility.”
With Marsch’s extensive experience in club football, including stints with the New York Red Bulls and FC Red Bull Salzburg, the Canadian fans will be eagerly anticipating the impact he can make on the national team as they gear up for the upcoming Copa América, Concacaf Gold Cup, and the highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup.
