Canada head coach Marsch at 22 'automatic choices' for maximum 26-man World Cup roster

Ahead of Friday's World Cup draw, Canada head coach Jesse Marsch still has roster questions, but likely only a few other than decisions decided by injury.

All 48 teams will have to submit a provisional roster of 35 to 55 players (featuring at least four goalkeepers), some six weeks in advance of the June 11 kickoff. From that list, FIFA says countries will then file a final roster of "at least 23 players up to a maximum of 26" (with at least three 'keepers) about two weeks to 10 days before the tournament start.

Expect Canada to carry the maximum number.

Having had 27 games to review his troops since taking charge in May 2024, Marsch has a pretty good idea of his tournament roster already.

“When I took the job, I said that maybe the number was 12 or 13," he said, referencing players who were automatic choices. "I think the number now is more like 22. And then I think there will be some heavy competition between two players in one position in maybe three or four spots.

"The good news is we have clearly developed a roster that's going to be well-rounded and two players deep [at each position]."

Marsch's final roster choice may come down to someone who can play multiple positions, or an experienced player like 35-year-old Junior Hoilett, who can provide leadership while on standby, or a young talent who will benefit from the experience of being at the tournament.

The starting goalkeeper comes down to Dayne St. Clair, the reigning MLS goalkeeper of the year, versus veteran Maxime Crepeau, who is looking for a team after parting ways with the Portland Timbers.

While St. Clair is an acrobatic shot-stopper, Crepeau is respected for his leadership and soccer intellect.

Marsch has brought in a variety of third-string