Jesse Marsch Leads Canadian Soccer to 2026 World Cup
In a significant development for Canadian soccer, Jesse Marsch has been appointed as the head coach of Canada's men's national soccer team, securing a contract extension that spans until the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The announcement comes ahead of the Copa América, where Canada is scheduled to face off against defending champions Argentina in the tournament opener on June 20. Marsch succeeds John Herdman, who departed last year to assume coaching responsibilities at Toronto FC in Major League Soccer. During the interim period, assistant coach Mauro Biello filled the role.
Canada, as a co-host alongside the United States and Mexico, has secured an automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup. Their last appearance in the global tournament was in 2022, marking their return after a 36-year absence. However, their performance in 2022 was marked by losses to Belgium, Croatia, and Morocco, resulting in an early exit.
The Canada Soccer Association disclosed that the financial support from the owners of Canada's three MLS teams – Toronto FC, CF Montreal, and Vancouver Whitecaps FC – facilitated the hiring of Marsch.
Marsch's journey in soccer encompasses a playing career that included stints at Princeton University, as well as clubs such as D.C. United, Chicago Fire, and Chivas USA in Major League Soccer. Transitioning into coaching, he served as an assistant coach for the United States national team under Bob Bradley from 2010 to 2011. Following this, he assumed the role of the inaugural head coach for MLS's Montreal Impact from 2011 to 2012.
His coaching tenure continued with stints at the New York Red Bulls from 2015 to 2018, followed by successful spells at Red Bull Salzburg from 2019 to 2021, RB Leipzig in 2021, and Leeds United from 2022 to 2023.
Marsch's appointment brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the Canadian national team as they prepare for upcoming international competitions, including the highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup.
