FIFA World Cup 2026 — Who is Canada’s coach?

Jesse Marsch, born in Wisconsin in the United States, is Canada’s head coach at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The former US international took charge of the Canadian men’s national team in May 2024 after coaching stints at Montreal Impact, New York Red Bulls, Red Bull Salzburg, RB Leipzig and Leeds United, having started his coaching journey as an assistant with the USMNT.

Marsch’s most notable club success came with the New York Red Bulls, whom he guided to the MLS Supporters’ Shield while earning MLS Coach of the Year honors in 2015. He later enjoyed a trophy-laden spell at Red Bull Salzburg, winning the Austrian Bundesliga and Austrian Cup double in each of his two seasons in charge. Since taking over Canada, Marsch has overseen one of the team’s most successful periods, leading to a historic performance in the 2024 Copa America semi-final.

Jesse Marsch’s record as a coach:

• Matches: 339

• Wins: 170

• Draws: 66

• Losses: 103

• Win percentage: 50.1

Jesse Marsch’s record as Canada’s coach:

• Matches: 29

• Wins: 12

• Draws: 12

• Losses: 5

• Win percentage: 41.4

• Goals scored: 37

• Goals conceded: 23

What did Canadian coach Jesse Marsch say before the game?

Ahead of Canada’s FIFA World Cup opener against Bosnia and Herzegovina, Jesse Marsch said he was prepared to handle the pressure of managing the co-host on home soil. “I wanted this responsibility,” said the Canadian coach, adding that his team was prepared for the pressure of the occasion.

Marsch also confirmed Alphonso Davies would miss the match and said Canada’s captain «will not be available tomorrow», although he added that signs of recovery were encouraging. He said Ismael Kone was «completely fine» after an illness scare in training and warned his players about discipline, saying red cards were among the easiest ways to derail a tournament.

(With input from agencies)

Published on June 12, 2026