Canada March Roster Projection: Dissecting Marsch's Options for World Cup Tuneups

With just months to go before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Canadian men's national team head coach Jesse Marsch is using the upcoming international window as a critical testing ground. Canada will face Iceland and Tunisia in Toronto later this month, and Marsch is expected to call up a larger squad than usual for these friendlies. The decision comes as a strategic move to both assess fringe players and keep key figures integrated into the team environment despite injuries.

Expanded Squad Amid Injuries and Tactical Planning

This will be Canada’s first official international window since November, and Marsch is keen not to let injured players drift too far from the team's rhythm. Several key figures have been sidelined recently, including Alphonso Davies, who is recovering from a fresh hamstring strain with Bayern Munich. Rather than leaving them out entirely, Marsch plans to bring injured players into camp as part of their return-to-play protocols. This ensures they remain involved in tactical meetings and team discussions—crucial ahead of the June 1 World Cup squad submission deadline.

"We’re getting very close to these three goalkeepers all being locks for the World Cup squad," notes one analyst, referring to Dayne St. Clair (Inter Miami), Maxime Crépeau (Orlando City), and rising young talent Owen Goodman (Barnsley). While St. Clair and Crépeau have had inconsistent starts with their new MLS clubs, they are expected to split playing time against Iceland and Tunisia. Goodman, recently named to the English League One Team of the Week, continues to build momentum for a third goalkeeper spot.

Defensive Depth and Returning Stars

At center back, Derek Cornelius’ return from a muscle injury that required surgery has lifted spirits. Cornelius recently resumed training with Rangers and is projected to start in Canada’s World Cup opener on June 12. His presence brings much-needed stability, especially with Moïse Bombito—another key defender—also likely to be included even if still in recovery. Bombito’s tactical importance makes it essential he stays connected to the team’s evolving system.

Other defenders like Jamie Knight-Lebel (Swindon Town), Ralph Priso (Vancouver Whitecaps), and Kamal Miller (Portland Timbers) are on the fringe but will get one final chance to impress. The coaching staff values their versatility, and with past tournaments marred by last-minute injuries, depth remains a priority.

Fullbacks: Energy and Leadership

Despite being down one of their biggest stars, Canada’s fullback group remains strong. Alphonso Davies was set to be the cornerstone, but his absence opens space for others to shine. Richie Laryea (Toronto FC) has cemented himself as a World Cup lock due to his relentless energy and defensive solidity. Niko Sigur (Hajduk Split) has earned praise for his intelligence and tenacity, making him a reliable starter candidate.

Alistair Johnston (Celtic), despite limited minutes since August due to a lingering hamstring issue, is expected to join camp. His leadership and experience are too valuable to leave out. "He is one of the biggest voices and presences for this Canada side," observes the report. Even Sam Adekugbe remains a possibility, though he has yet to return from an Achilles tear suffered during a match against Ivory Coast in June.

Midfield Creativity and Attacking Versatility

In central midfield, Stephen Eustáquio (LAFC) and Ismaël Koné (Sassuolo) lead a group that looks set for the World Cup. Koné, in particular, is gaining confidence after scoring in two of his last six Serie A appearances. If he maintains this form, he could emerge as a breakout star in North America.

On the wings, Tajon Buchanan (Villarreal) and Ali Ahmed (Norwich City) are expected to start both friendlies, thanks to their strong club performances. Others like Junior Hoilett (Swindon Town), Liam Millar (Hull City), Jacob Shaffelburg (LAFC), and Marcelo Flores (Tigres UANL) provide depth and tactical variety. At 35, Hoilett remains valued for his cerebral play, though his role may be limited to substitute appearances.

Flores, now officially eligible after switching allegiance from Mexico, is set for his first action with Canada—a moment many are watching closely.

Strikers: New Hope Amid Injury Setbacks

Potential absence of prolific forward Jonathan David due to surgery has reshaped the striker conversation. However, David (now at Juventus), Tani Oluwaseyi (Villarreal), and Cyle Larin (Southampton) remain firm locks. The surprise inclusion is Theo Bair (Lausanne), who returned from a ligament tear on March 8. Standing at 6’5”, Bair offers the physical presence and hold-up play Canada may miss without Promise David.

But the biggest shocker is Aribim Pepple (Plymouth Argyle), the lone new face in the projected roster. After scoring 10 goals in 11 League One matches, Pepple has forced his way in. Once a journeyman through seven clubs since 2023 and a former Canadian Premier League star, Pepple’s resilience and confidence make him impossible to ignore. "That he is scoring regularly and playing with a boatload of confidence wins out," the report states. His size and strength add further appeal.

With less than three months until the World Cup, Marsch’s squad selection process is entering its final phase. Every performance in these friendlies will carry weight, as Canada aims to build cohesion, test depth, and finalize a roster capable of competing on the global stage.