The Canada men’s national team has called up Bayern Munich winger Alphonso Davies for its upcoming World Cup 2026 qualifier against Curaçao, defying expectations he would miss the squad due to ankle tendinitis. The 24-year-old defender-forward, a key figure in Canada’s 2022 World Cup run, was listed as questionable by his club side after missing Bayern’s Champions League match last week.
Canada’s head coach, Mauro Biello, confirmed Davies was selected based on his leadership and attacking threat, despite the player’s fitness status. "We need his creativity and experience," Biello said. "We’ll monitor him daily, but he’s part of the group." Davies has not played for Canada since scoring twice in a 4-1 Nations League victory over Curaçao in June.
| Player | Club Status | Canada Status |
|---|---|---|
| Alphonso Davies | Questionable vs. Real Madrid | Called up |
| Jonathan Osorio | Available | Called up |
| Cyle Larin | Suspended | Not called up |
The qualifier, set for November 18 in Toronto, marks Canada’s first competitive match since a 2-0 loss to the United States in June. A win would secure the team a top-two finish in CONCACAF’s final round, but Davies’ participation hinges on his recovery timeline.
💡 Pro Tip
Insiders report Davies has been undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy to accelerate healing, but club and country remain cautious. His inclusion suggests Canada prioritizes his intangible value over risk.
Canada’s World Cup 2026 hopes rest on a core of young talent like Davies, Atiba Hutchinson, and Alistair Johnston, but injuries have already forced Biello to reshuffle his lineup. The team’s depth chart includes uncapped talents like Toronto FC’s Fode Toure, who could earn a surprise start if Davies’ ankle doesn’t improve.
Key Points
- ⚡ Davies called up despite 6-week absence from Bayern due to ankle injury
- 📊 Canada needs his creativity in CONCACAF final round qualifiers
- 💡 Biello insists fitness will be monitored daily, but inclusion signals trust
The injury saga adds pressure to Davies’ already demanding schedule, with Bayern’s Bundesliga clash against Bayer Leverkusen looming on November 25. His recovery progress will determine whether he faces Curaçao or watches from the stands.
📋 By The Numbers
- 3 — Goals scored by Davies in 2024 for Canada
- 24 — Age when he made his World Cup debut in 2022
Canada’s path to the 2026 tournament remains precarious. A loss to Curaçao could eliminate the team from contention, while a win keeps their hopes alive. Davies’ role—whether as a starter or substitute—will be critical in shaping the outcome.