Canada coach Marsch blasts Trumps 51st state rhetoric [Video]

Canadian men’s football coach Jesse Marsch decried US President Donald Trump’s “ridiculous rhetoric about Canada being the 51st state,” calling it insulting to a loyal ally.

Marsch, a 51-year-old American who took over as Canada coach in 2024, spoke to reporters on Wednesday at a media day for the CONCACAF Nations League finals next month, and said Trump’s animosity toward Canada had only invigorated his team.

“If I have one message to our president, it’s lay off the ridiculous rhetoric about Canada being the 51st state,” Marsch said. “As an American, I’m ashamed of the arrogance and disregard that we’ve shown one of our historically oldest, strongest and most loyal allies.”

Marsch said that he had developed a deep appreciation for Canadian culture and society since taking his current job.

“Canada is a strong, independent nation that is deep-rooted in decency,” he said. “And it’s a place that values high …