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Canada has finalised its squad for the 2026 World Cup. As Alphonso Davies edges closer to full fitness and competition for spots intensifies, the team announcement has revealed clear winners and losers within the group.

TORONTO — In a grand unveiling broadcast from Charlotte, accompanied by a banner draped from the top of Toronto’s iconic CN Tower, Canada officially confirmed the 26-player roster that will represent the men’s national team at the 2026 World Cup.

Coach Jesse Marsch has announced a relatively healthy team. While captain and star fullback Alphonso Davies is expected to miss the opening match on June 12 against Bosnia and Herzegovina due to injury, the remainder of the squad has largely recovered after months of fitness concerns.

There are still a few choices left for Marsch, particularly in goal. He plans to split time between Dayne St. Clair and Maxime Crépeau in Monday’s friendly against Uzbekistan, giving each 45 minutes. Beyond that, the roster is locked in.

“I had a really good meeting with the team leaders... Having everyone together always brings great energy,” Marsch told OneSoccer. “We’re getting healthier, and there have been a lot of positive developments over the last week or so. We’re gaining momentum and getting ready for what’s ahead.”

GOAL breaks down the biggest winners and losers from Canada’s roster reveal. The team can still make injury-related changes until 2:59 p.m. ET on June 11 and will travel with Ralph Priso, Zorhan Bassong, and Jayden Nelson for pre-tournament matches against Uzbekistan and Ireland in Edmonton and Montreal.

WINNER: The Injuries... Somehow

When striker Promise David suffered a serious hip injury in January while playing for Royale Union Saint-Gilloise and required surgery, his World Cup dream seemed over. The same was feared for Alfie Jones of Middlesbrough, who underwent ankle surgery, Moïse Bombito recovering from a broken leg sustained in October, and winger Ali Ahmed’s hamstring issue.

For months, Marsch and his staff spoke cautiously about recovery timelines that could allow key players to return in time. Remarkably, by Friday, most of those hopes had materialised.

In David’s case, his comeback has been nothing short of extraordinary. Earlier this week, he humorously told CBC that his rapid recovery made him an ideal candidate for starting a human colony on Mars, joking about his ability to regenerate muscle faster than expected.

“I think I could regrow a limb if I lost it, honestly. I could regrow a f--king limb if I wanted to,” David, also known as Tobi, told CBC. “My immune system is terrible—if I catch a cold, I’m done. But when it comes to regrowth, if we ever start a colony on Mars, I should be first in line.”

The main concern now is Alphonso Davies. He is part of the squad and will join the team in Edmonton, but after straining his hamstring during the UEFA Champions League semifinal, he’s unlikely to feature in the friendlies or the opening match. Marsch, however, confirmed that Davies will play at some stage during the tournament.

LOSER: Ralph Priso

Ralph Priso had been one of the standout performers for Vancouver Whitecaps FC during their 2025 MLS Cup final run, setting himself up for a breakthrough with the national team. Unfortunately, a hamstring injury during his first international start in March derailed that progress. He returned on May 21, scoring in Vancouver’s win over San Diego FC, but it was too late to secure a roster spot.

The 23-year-old remains a versatile option for future squads, capable of playing both defensive midfield and centre-back. For now, though, the return of other key defenders has left him on the sidelines. He will travel with the team for the friendlies to help manage player minutes and could be the first replacement if injuries occur.

WINNER: Jonathan Osorio

Jonathan Osorio embodies Toronto football, with over 400 appearances for Toronto FC, an MLS Cup title, and 90 national team caps—many earned at home. The Brampton native, one of four from the area in the squad, was uncertain for selection after being benched during the goalless draw against Colombia in October, his family’s homeland.

Though he may not see much action during the World Cup, Osorio’s leadership and experience are invaluable. His selection over veteran winger Junior Hoilett is also notable, as Hoilett’s current form with Swindon Town has been underwhelming.

LOSER: Left-Side Depth

Canada’s left flank presents a mixed picture. On one hand, Alphonso Davies could return by the second match, and Richie Laryea has proven capable in the role. However, Laryea hasn’t played for Toronto FC since April 22, leaving him short on match fitness. Without Zorhan Bassong in the main squad, depth on that side looks thin.

In an emergency, Alistair Johnston from Celtic FC could shift to left back, allowing Hajduk Split’s Niko Sigur to slot in on the right. Still, this would disrupt the defence’s established chemistry. Bassong, travelling with the team for the friendlies, could become the first backup option if injuries strike.

WINNER: Jacob Shaffelburg

Jacob Shaffelburg, the energetic LAFC winger who scored Canada’s crucial goal against Venezuela in the 2024 Copa América quarterfinals, has earned his spot despite earlier doubts about his fitness. Training in Charlotte this week, away from media attention, he continues to build strength after missing the March camp due to a sports hernia. Recently, he has seen limited minutes with LAFC but remains an influential presence.

With his trademark energy, beaming smile, and speed, Shaffelburg has become a fan favourite. He was considered a fringe player before camp, but with Austin FC’s Jayden Nelson staying on as a reserve, Shaffelburg now holds the advantage for the World Cup roster.

LOSER: Daniel Jebbison

Canada’s decision to bring only four strikers means Daniel Jebbison misses out on his World Cup debut. Despite his impressive performances in draws against Iceland and Tunisia, the competition up front was fierce. Marsch opted for the quartet of Juventus’ Jonathan David, Southampton’s Cyle Larin—nicknamed the “Brampton Bagsman” for his nine goals in 22 games—CF Villarreal’s tireless presser Tani Oluwaseyi, and the recovered Promise David.

Jebbison, a dual national eligible for both England and Canada, will not regret choosing to represent the Maple Leafs, but he’ll now look ahead to the 2030 World Cup, when he’ll be 26, for his chance to shine on football’s biggest stage.