How MLS talent is powering Canada’s National Team into the Concacaf League of Nations

Clearly, the roster that coach Jesse Marsch has chosen for the Concacaf Nations League quarterfinals is heavy with MLS talent. Fully ten players from the league have been called up to represent Canada against critical matches against Suriname, illustrating the influence of MLS on the international stage and its commitment to developing Canadian soccer.

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Below, we delve into how this roster reflects the growth and importance of MLS for Canadian soccer. We discuss how these athletes are performing and what that means in terms of the competition and image for MLS.

The Foundation of Canada's National Team in MLS

MLS does a lot to develop talent in Canada. More recognizable names on the list Marsch has put together include goalkeeper Jonathan Sirois of CF Montréal and the Portland Timbers' Kamal Miller, showing the strength of the league in Canada. For years, MLS has been one of the main breeding grounds for a lot of talent that impresses both in local and international competitions.

But to Canada, this isn't just the MLS laying a foundation of preparation for the Nations League. This league is building towards 2026 when Canada will co-host the World Cup along with the U.S. and Mexico. Having goalkeepers from the MLS on the national team is an early step in building a robust, prepared team for one of the world's largest sporting events.

Goalkeeper Impact of MLS

The selection of Sirois and Dayne St. Clair between the posts, in particular, is a testament to MLS's standing in developing quality, dependable goalkeepers. St. Clair has had excellent games in the MLS playoffs, where he has been particularly clutch in penalty shootouts, to help Minnesota United FC advance.

These performances place MLS in a position where athletes are trained to handle such high-intensity moments. From international tournament knockout stages, where every decision is crucial, the training and experience that players get from a competitive league like MLS give key advantages to Canada's national team.

Up-and-coming Defenders

Defensively, MLS adds depth to Canada's team with players like Richie Laryea from Toronto FC and Kamal Miller. Both bring experience that is important to Canada's back line, offering strong resilient defensive presence. Miller, since his return after Copa América, epitomizes quality that MLS brings to Canada's back.

Furthermore, the fact that Laryea can adapt to whatever the team needs at any given moment-be it a defensive or supporting position-provides room for tactical variation. Versatility is key, and that is just what MLS has in store: athletes ready for multiple in-game styles and tensions, which make the backline of Canada more dynamic and ready. 

Midfield: MLS Energy and Creativity

It gives the midfield essential energy and creativity to go up against Suriname, with the presence of players like Toronto FC's Jonathan Osorio and Nashville SC's Jacob Shaffelburg. The MLS veteran Osorio has sharp vision and experience in organizing play, connecting the offense. Meanwhile, Shaffelburg has shown notable growth on both the club and national levels, marking MLS as fertile ground for developing younger talent.

Ali Ahmed of the Vancouver Whitecaps will inject new energy into the midfield. His possession play and ability to open the field with accurate passing are what Canada needs to set a rhythm to the game when playing against quick and tactical teams like Suriname. Each MLS player has a clear, defined tactical role that brings value to Canada's midfield.

The Power of Canada's Attack with MLS

MLS's biggest contribution to Canada's offense is from Minnesota United with Tani Oluwaseyi. The selection of Oluwaseyi itself is representative of the league's ability in offering promising, skillful forwards-even in a league replete with international talent.

Oluwaseyi, along with Theo Bair who is currently at AJ Auxerre, makes for different and energetic attacking options for Canada. MLS has given a platform to Oluwaseyi to develop his craft, work his way through difficult defenses, and be noticeable. It's important that Canada has forwards that bring fresh energy and an appetite to score-first decisive factors in big games.