Canada have been forced into a late squad change ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after winger Marcelo Flores was ruled out of the tournament with a serious knee injury, paving the way for Jayden Nelson to join the squad.
Canada Soccer confirmed on Tuesday that Flores will miss the World Cup after suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee while playing for Mexican club Tigres UANL.
The 22-year-old sustained the injury on 30 May during a CONCACAF Champions League fixture and underwent surgery on 5 June, ending his hopes of featuring at the tournament.
Flores had been expected to play an important role in Canada’s World Cup campaign, making his absence a significant setback for head coach Jesse Marsch and his squad.
Canada have moved quickly to replace the winger by calling up Nelson, who was initially left out of the final 26-man roster. The 23-year-old remained with the national team after being one of three players cut from the preliminary squad who continued training with the group.
That decision has now paid off, with Nelson stepping directly into the squad following Flores’ withdrawal.
The winger impressed during Canada’s preparation camp in Charlotte and boosted his credentials by scoring in a 2-0 friendly victory over Uzbekistan national football team.
Nelson arrives at the World Cup after making 10 appearances for Austin FC this season, scoring twice. He also brings international experience, having earned 14 caps and scored three goals for Canada.
Canada, one of the tournament’s co-hosts, will begin their Group B campaign against Bosnia and Herzegovina on 12 June before facing Qatar and Switzerland in their remaining group-stage matches.
While Flores now faces a lengthy rehabilitation process, Nelson has been handed an unexpected opportunity to represent his country on football’s biggest stage as Canada pursue a place in the knockout rounds.
