Much to the USMNT‘s chagrin, Jesse Marsch is taking over as head coach of the Canadian national team.
The former Leeds boss was first in line to take over the U.S. Men’s National Team coach role in 2023 due to Gregg Berhalter’s potential departure. However, after investigating Berhalter’s past domestic abuse issues, the USMNT rehired Berhalter.
There was still hope that Marsch would be the go-to choice should Berhalter underperform at this summer’s Copa America. But now we’re sure to see the two American bosses go head-to-head.
Marsch lands the long-sought-after job
A trio of MLS teams based in Canada are funding Marsch’s deal through July 2026: Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver. The unusual “philanthropic” support structure means Marsh’s official title is MLS Canada Men’s National Team Head Coach. We’re pretty sure he’ll opt for the shorter version.
Marsh, who has wanted the Canada national job since 2012 when he coached CF Montreal, replaces interim boss Mauro Biello. It’ll be interesting to see how much impact the three MLS teams have in influencing the final 23-man roster for Copa America. The last roster included four MLS league players, all from Montreal.
“This team is going to be something that the entire Canadian community is going to be so excited about and ready to support,” Marsch told CEO of Canada Soccer Kevin Blue. “We’re going to play with power and inspiration, and we’re going to go for it. I can’t wait to get started.”
Marsch’s coaching record has been a series of ups and downs. His past includes successful stints at New York Red Bulls and FC Red Bull Salzburg, which he took twice to the Champions League group stages. More recently, the 50-year-old coached Leeds, whom he helped prop into the Premier League in the 2022/23 season before facing the axe for a string of poor results. He’s since been doing commentary on the Champions League for CBS Sports.
How far can Marsch take Canada at Copa America this summer?
Marsch remains optimistic and excited about stepping up again on the sidelines. After years of mediocrity compared to the USMNT and Mexico, the Canada national team is now a full force with European-calibre players, including Bayern Munich star Alphonso Davies.
But some Canada fans are not so sure Marsch is the right pick to lead them into this summer’s Copa America and the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico. Marsch is widely regarded as an emotional coach.
“Leeds fan here,” said one on X. “This is not good. Prepare for someone with an ego who puts himself over the team. He plays a very narrow system so the Alphonso Davies conundrum will be even more complicated than ever. He talks way more than he actually walks.”
Given the dismal state of Peru and Chile, Canada has a good chance of escaping Group A behind reigning Copa America champions Argentina.
Photo: x/tombogert
