Strengthening Canada’s Football Defense: Key Players and Strategies

Are there any easier starters to choose from? At full strength, Canada’s top two players are clear choices. Alphonso Davies is an undeniable star and arguably the best player Canada has ever produced. His remarkable consistency, first in Major League Soccer (MLS) and now with Bayern Munich, speaks volumes about his capabilities as a top attacking weapon. Criticisms regarding his defensive skills are often exaggerated.

Alistair Johnston, on the other hand, emerged as a late bloomer. After excelling at Wake Forest University, he gradually made his way into the professional arena. His impressive performances at Celtic earned him a spot on the Canadian national team ahead of the 2022 World Cup, and he has remained a key player since. Although persistent hamstring issues sidelined him since the summer, he underwent surgery in November and is expected to be fit and ready by the time the World Cup arrives. Canada has sorely missed his presence, as he brings a sense of composure and quality to the backline.

There is a strong sense of stability in the defense. Niko Sigur has been recognized as a solid professional for quite some time, showcasing his talents first at York University in Canada and then with Croatia’s Hajduk Split. As a dual national eligible for both Croatia and Canada, he has made strides into the first team under manager Jesse Marsch, potentially securing his position. His versatility is particularly valuable; while primarily a right back, Sigur can also play as a defensive midfielder or central defender when needed. Although he may take on a reserve role, it wouldn’t be surprising if he plays a significant part for Les Rouges.

Richie Laryea embodies the seasoned veteran that coaches value. An MLS veteran who briefly played in the English Premier League, Laryea is the elder statesman of the Canada squad. He received his first call-up in 2019 and now boasts over 70 caps. Laryea was part of the squad that helped Canada qualify for the 2022 World Cup, and although he may not be a guaranteed starter anymore, the 31-year-old can effectively perform at either full back position while providing much-needed leadership to an otherwise youthful team.

The dynamics become even more intriguing when considering Canada’s defensive lineup. While they maintain a strong four-defender setup, there are opportunities to introduce more attacking options. Tajon Buchanan was on the path to stardom until he suffered a broken leg in 2024. Nevertheless, he remains a significant talent. His optimal position is on the right wing, but some coaches have utilized him as a right back or right wing-back in a 3-4-2-1 formation. Though Marsch has historically favored a four-back setup, Buchanan presents an appealing alternative should a more aggressive strategy be adopted.

Attention should also be given to Jamie Knight-Lebel. Marsch has successfully attracted dual-national talents to the Canadian team, and Knight-Lebel exemplifies this effort. The Swindon defender participated in the Gold Cup this summer and has made three appearances with the national team. Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty could also be considered if he secures a place in the Montreal first team, especially after receiving a call-up at the end of 2025.

Ideally, this would not be a debate. Davies and Johnston represent a defensive duo comparable to the finest full-back pairings in world football. Johnston is often underrated, while Davies shines as a global star. Marsch has assured that Davies will be prepared for the World Cup, especially after gaining valuable playing time at Bayern and enjoying the Bundesliga’s two-week winter break.

However, Canada possesses solid options beyond just these two. Sigur continues to improve and has recently been linked with a significant transfer to Celtic. Laryea will consistently serve as a reliable backup for Les Rouges. The state of Canada’s full-back situation appears strong; Marsch’s hope will be that his main players remain healthy.