Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Considered for Canada Men's National Team Head Coach Position

Former Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has surfaced as a candidate for the vacant head coach position of the Canada men's national soccer team. The Canadian Soccer Association is searching for a new coach to lead the team into the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which Canada will co-host with the United States and Mexico.

Solskjaer, who has been out of work since parting ways with Manchester United in 2021, is reportedly one of several high-profile coaches being considered for the role. Other candidates include former Leeds United manager Jesse Marsch, former Real Madrid and Middlesbrough boss Aitor Karanka, experienced coach Paul Clement, and Forge FC's Bobby Smyrniotis.

Canada is looking to build on their recent success, having qualified for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar under previous coach John Herdman. Herdman has since left the national team to take charge of MLS side Toronto FC, leaving Canada in need of a new leader.

Why this matters: The appointment of a new head coach is viewed as critical for Canada's preparations and performance at the 2026 World Cup. With the tournament being held on home soil, expectations are high for the Canadian team to make a strong showing and progress to the knockout stages.

According to reports, the Canadian Soccer Association has reached out to Solskjaer about the position, but his level of interest remains unclear. While his tenure at Manchester United ended without silverware, Solskjaer demonstrated the ability to compete against top teams and play attractive football.

Paul Clement, another candidate, is said to have impressed the CSA with his experience and the details of his meeting with them. Clement has worked as an assistant to Carlo Ancelotti at several top European clubs and could be an affordable and experienced option for Canada.

The new head coach will inherit a promising young squad, featuring talents such as Lille's Jonathan David and Bayern Munich's Alphonso Davies. "We are looking for a coach who can help us qualify for the knockout rounds of the 2026 World Cup and make our country proud," a CSA spokesperson said. The association aims to make a decision on the new head coach in the coming months as they prepare for the historic tournament on home soil.

Key Takeaways

• Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is a candidate for Canada's national team head coach role.
• Canada seeks an experienced coach to lead them in the 2026 World Cup, which they co-host.
• Other candidates include Jesse Marsch, Aitor Karanka, Paul Clement, and Bobby Smyrniotis.
• Canada aims to build on their 2022 World Cup qualification and progress to the knockout rounds.
• The new coach will inherit a talented young squad, including Lille's Jonathan David and Bayern's Alphonso Davies.