Alphonso Davies has returned to the Canada squad for the upcoming CONCACAF Nations League quarter-final tie against Guatemala. The Bayern Munich star and national team captain is set to feature in the two-legged series that begins on 13 November.
Head coach Jesse Marsch confirmed the 26-year-old's inclusion in a 23-man roster. "I'm super excited to have him back," Marsch said. "I think the whole team is. I think he's going to add a lot to who we are."
Davies missed Canada's three friendlies in late September and early October, a period that included a 2-0 win over Peru and a 1-0 loss to the United States earlier this month. His return provides a significant boost as Canada, ranked 27th in the world, aims to secure a spot in both the 2027 Nations League Finals and the 2027 Gold Cup.
The left-back, who has operated as a wingback for his club this season, brings pace and attacking threat from wide areas. Marsch indicated he wants to utilise Davies in a similar role for the national team. Davies has three goals and three assists in 13 appearances for Bayern Munich this campaign, showing he is in strong form.
"He's in really good shape and form, mentally, physically, psychologically, I think in all ways," Marsch added. "He's really excited to come back and be with the national team."
The squad sees the return of goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau, who missed the recent friendlies following the death of his father. However, Canada will be without several key players due to injury, including Derek Cornelius, Alfie Jones, Alistair Johnston, Cyle Larin and Stephen Eustáquio.
Eighteen-year-olds Richard Chukwu and Kevin Khan have been called up as injury replacements, adding fresh options for Marsch. Canada's recent form shows two wins and one loss from their last three matches, with the next test a trip to face Guatemala.
The winner of the two-legged quarter-final, with the second leg on 16 November, earns qualification for the 2027 CONCACAF Nations League Finals and an automatic berth in the 2027 Gold Cup. Canada beat Guatemala 1-0 in their last meeting in January.
Guatemala, ranked 95th and making its first quarter-final appearance, will be without Jonathan Franco and Carlos Estrada due to three-game suspensions. The Guatemalan federation also faces stadium capacity restrictions for its next home match as part of sanctions for discriminatory incidents.
Canada's campaign continues with the away leg in Guatemala on 13 November, a key step in their journey under Marsch.
This story first appeared at Sportsnet Soccer
