Jesse Marsch's Master Plan: How Canada's Coach Locked Down Alfie Jones and Key Dual Nationals for 2026 World Cup Glory
Jesse Marsch demands complete commitment from his squad, particularly from his recently recruited dual-nationality players: Middlesbrough defender Alfie Jones and Crystal Palace goalkeeper Owen Goodman.
Jones stands out among the group. Nearly all other Canadian squad members are bundled in winter gear to combat Toronto's bitter cold during Marsch's rigorous training session.
Yet Jones braves the elements without protection, despite not even holding Canadian citizenship yet.
The England-born defender joins the Canadian setup for the first time at age 28, with just over 200 days remaining before Canada co-hosts the 2026 World Cup with the United States and Mexico.
He may earn his first cap on Thursday when Canada takes on Ecuador in Toronto during the opening match of two November exhibitions against South American teams. However, his matchday involvement could extend beyond football. He plans to complete his Canadian citizenship ceremony.
"The experience has been incredible and overwhelming. I'm thrilled to be here, truly privileged to be part of this. I'm absorbing every single moment," Jones shared with Sports Illustrated during an exclusive conversation on his second day ever in Canada. "I expected cold weather, but arriving to see actual snow caught me off guard. England hasn't had snow in several years."
Joining him and Goodman is Mexican-Canadian Marcelo Flores, currently designated as a training-only participant.
From the Sauna to Canada
This is Alfie Jones' first time in Canada.
He's eligible for the #CanMNT through his grandparent.
And brave enough as one of the few Canadian players to not have any head warmth at today's training. pic.twitter.com/50du2rxr3r
While Goodman and Flores had previously featured for Canada's youth teams, a casual discussion brought Jones to the national team's attention.
During the early stages of the 2024-25 campaign, Jones relaxed in the sauna alongside new Hull City colleague Liam Millar, who was preparing to link up with Canada. Jones casually revealed that his grandmother had been raised in Canada before relocating to England.
Millar informed Marsch about Jones, setting the wheels in motion.
"Marsch contacted me immediately, becoming the first coach to ever reach out. I'm not sure anyone was aware of my Canadian heritage," Jones explained, noting his goal was inclusion in the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup roster. "The moment he called, my response was immediate: 'I want to be involved, let's begin the paperwork... I'm fully committed.'"
"Alfie Jones? He's maybe even more Canadian than he knew!" 😅
Jesse Marsch offers his assessment of Alfie Jones, Owen Goodman and Marcelo Flores – the 3 new dual-nationals called up to the CanMNT 🇨🇦 pic.twitter.com/iBvfCDkCxg
His knowledge about his grandmother remains limited, as she died during his childhood, though he knows she was raised in Hillcrest, Alberta, a tiny mountain community, before returning to England. Jones wouldn't have qualified previously, but recent legislative changes opened the door for citizenship.
Canada Soccer collaborated with the Canadian government to expedite his application and secure his squad inclusion ahead of the World Cup.
"Performing the anthem at the stadium before supporters and taking my citizenship oath would be extraordinary, creating an unforgettable experience," he stated, mentioning that Millar helped him learn the anthem. "I hope to demonstrate my worth during this camp and show I deserve continued selection."
As a father with another child expected, Jones has evolved from a Southampton Academy prospect through Scottish football's challenges to becoming one of the Championship's most formidable physical center-backs.
He's now poised for his career's next chapter, excited about a home World Cup before his family, while acknowledging the competition for a roster position in a strong defensive area.
"The World Cup represents the ultimate achievement, so participating as a host nation would be remarkable," he reflected. "It's constantly on my mind, and honestly, it's difficult not to consider, but my current focus remains entirely on this camp and approaching each day individually."
Goodman's Extended Citizenship Journey
In August, Marsch indicated Goodman wasn't qualified for Canada. Despite spending considerable childhood years in Alliston, Ontario, he hadn't satisfied the residency criteria for citizenship.
Then his name appeared on the November squad list.
"I learned two weeks ago he received his citizenship," Marsch revealed when announcing the roster. "He's expressed to me clearly that he feels genuinely Canadian and has been determined to obtain his passport because he wants to represent this team."
Currently with Huddersfield Town, Goodman is regarded as a promising goalkeeping talent for both Canada and Crystal Palace following an impressive EFL League Two campaign with AFC Wimbledon last season.
November in Toronto.
Toronto en novembre.#CANMNT pic.twitter.com/N4MtieHv5z
Qualified for England, Canada and Nigeria, he represented the first two at youth levels before declining Nigeria's senior team invitations while pursuing Canadian status.
Standing at 6'7", he's now Canada's tallest goalkeeper and could challenge the expected top goalkeeping duo of 2025 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year Dayne St. Clair and Maxime Crépeau.
"[Marsch] views me as this nation's future, which isn't something you'd tell just anyone," he shared with The Athletic. "That's a significant declaration to make. When he tells me that, I experience genuine excitement and joy."
Flores Faces Canada-Mexico Decision Again
While Jones epitomized resilience against Toronto's harsh November conditions, Flores appeared stunned after spending most of his career in Mexico's warmer climate. With only his eyes visible through extensive winter clothing, he navigated drills for the country where he was raised.
Flores joins the squad solely as a training participant. Marsch made two trips to Mexico to persuade him to give Canada another opportunity, after representing El Tri at both youth and senior levels.
He's permitted to submit a one-time FIFA nationality switch under current rules because his three senior appearances for Mexico occurred before age 21.
The Canadian team may have just six matches before their World Cup opener on June 12, but one thing remains evident: they're exploring all possibilities. Marsch recognizes his solid foundation, but any enhancements will always be welcomed.