Jesse Marsch has dismissed suggestions that his appointment as Canada men's national team head coach, funded by the country's three Major League Soccer clubs, could compromise his independence. The 50-year-old American was unveiled last week after a nine-month search, with Toronto FC, Vancouver Whitecaps and CF Montréal covering his salary to circumvent Canada Soccer's financial constraints.
Speaking to the Guardian from Mallorca, where he was meeting striker Cyle Larin, Marsch said: 'Will MLS owners dictate selection? Come on man!' He stressed that the arrangement would not affect his decisions, adding: 'I have the freedom in my life to do what's best for me and myself.'
Marsch, formerly of Leeds United and RB Leipzig, becomes the highest-profile hire in Canadian football history. He will lead the side into the 2026 World Cup, which Canada will co-host with the United States and Mexico. His appointment comes after US Soccer opted to re-hire Gregg Berhalter following the 2022 World Cup, a decision Marsch has previously criticised.
'US Soccer had the chance to hire me. They have nobody to look at but themselves,' Marsch said. 'Really, for me, it has nothing to do with the US. It's all about preparing ourselves for [2026] to be the best team possible.'
Canada Soccer has been beset by off-field turmoil, with a $4m deficit this year. New CEO Kevin Blue, who arrived from Golf Canada, brokered the unique funding deal with the MLS owners. Marsch's first major test will be the Copa América in June.
