Canada's five most important players at Copa America 2024
- Canada still remain underdogs in Group A despite the appointment of Jesse Marsch as head coach
- Alphonso Davies and Jonathan David could form a formidable duo up front for Canada
- Canada's Copa America run begins on June 20 vs Argentina
Canada return to action this summer in hopes of avoiding a group-stage exit at Copa America 2024.
Before the appointment of Jesse Marsch, most thought that Canada were a lock to finish at the bottom of Group A against Argentina, Chile and Peru. Now, with the former Leeds United boss at the helm, the US' northern neighbors could make noise early on in the tournament.
It will still be difficult for Canada to get past Chile in a battle for the runners-up spot in Group A -- assuming that Argentina secure first place in the group. Should Canada stand a chance in their competitive group, there are several players that will have to step up give their country a shot at reaching the knockout stage.
Here are Canada's five most important players at Copa America 2024.
5. Maxime Crepeau
Perhaps one of Canada's more underrated yet still very important players is none other than goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau.
The Portland Timbers player is expected to start in goal for Canada come June vs Argentina as he closes in on 20 caps for his country.
4. Tajon Buchanan
The young Tajon Buchanan just might be Canada's most versatile player alongside Alphonso Davies.
The former New England Revolution and Club Brugge figure is fully capable of playing in either a back-three or back-four setup under Marsch, taking on roles as a wing-back, full-back or winger. Marsh will look to use the Inter player's versatility to the fullest extend to try to qualify for the quarter-finals.
3. Stephen Eustaquio
Although Canada have young midfielders like Mathieu Choiniere and Ismael Kone in their ranks, Stephen Eustaquio remains the most important to the team's setup.
The FC Porto player has earned 35 caps since his Canada debut back in 2019, and he's set to play a huge role in Marsch's side from this point onwards.
2. Jonathan David
If Canada are to shock the world and advance to the quarter-finals, they'll need to score plenty of goals as they don't exactly have the most secure defense.
In steps Jonathan David, who's managed 26 goals in 46 appearances for Canada. No matter how Marsch looks to lineup, you can bet on seeing David involved leading the line.
1. Alphonso Davies
Alphonso Davies is capable of playing just about anywhere down the left-hand side as a winger, wing-back and full-back.
Due to his electrifying pace and above-average dribbling abilities, it wouldn't be a huge surprise to see the Bayern Munich figure lineup on the wing against Argentina on June. Regardless of where he's playing, Davies must lead by example to give Canada at chance at reaching the knockout stage.