Davies Not Fit Enough: Canada Coach Explains Bluff Involving Bayern Star | OneFootball

When he’s healthy, Alphonso Davies is one of the indispensable members of the Canadian national team’s roster. He hasn’t played in the World Cup yet. 

His comeback was actually planned for the Canadian team’s third group stage match against Switzerland. At least, that’s what coach Jesse Marsch had announced at the pre-match press conference.

“Physically, on the field, and mentally: Our captain is back; our best player is back on the team. I think that’s a crucial factor. He’s ready,” he explained beforehand. The fact that Davies didn’t play at all despite the loss left many surprised.

Marsch clarifies the Davies bluff

Fans and the media were all the more eager for Marsch’s postgame interview. There, the former RB Leipzig coach revealed that he had been bluffing about the Bayern star.

Photo: IMAGO

Speaking to media representatives, Canada’s national team coach said: “Alphonso wasn’t ready today. I used him as a diversion. He wouldn’t have played today anyway!”

The question now is whether the Bayern star will be ready for the next game. That’s when Canada will face South Africa in the Round of 32. “I believe he’ll be ready for the next game,” Marsch added. However, he said the same thing ahead of the match against Switzerland.

What’s clear in any case is that Davies has been able to significantly increase his workload over the past few days. He’s made progress in training and is more resilient. The fact that he wasn’t used after all could also suggest that the Canadians are still being very cautious with the left-footed player.

Even before the World Cup, FC Bayern and the national association agreed that they would not take any risks under any circumstances. They also agreed to maintain close communication throughout the tournament.