Jesse Marsch Denies USMNT Grudge Ahead of Tuesday Friendly

Canada coach Jesse Marsch confirmed he holds no ill will toward the U.S. Soccer Federation despite being snubbed for the managerial post in 2023.

Canada coach Jesse Marsch stated during a Monday pre-match news conference in St. Paul, Minn., that he holds "no grudge" against the United States ahead of Tuesday's friendly. The U.S. Soccer Federation passed over Marsch for its head coaching position in the summer of 2023, opting instead to rehire Gregg Berhalter. Marsch, who was subsequently hired by the Canada Soccer Association in May 2024, previously described himself as "devastated and angry" regarding the decision.

Since his appointment, Marsch has led Canada to two victories over the USMNT. These results include a 2-1 friendly win in September 2024 and a 2-1 victory in the 2025 Concacaf Nations League third-place match. Marsch noted that the rivalry between the two nations has intensified over the last 20 months, citing recent political tensions and sporting competition in both soccer and hockey.

Marsch also addressed recent controversies, including his comments to the Guardian regarding a delayed red-card suspension for U.S. forward Folarin Balogun during the last World Cup. He claimed that U.S. President Donald Trump contacted FIFA president Gianni Infantino to allow the Monaco striker to play. Despite his outspokenness on American political environments, Marsch affirmed his pride in his current role, stating he aims for Canada to become the "beacon of the region."