Jesse Marsch: Coaching Canada, World Cup Dreams & Premier League Reality | It’s Called Soccer EP 60

It’s Episode 60 of It’s Called Soccer, and this week we’re joined by Canada men’s national team head coach Jesse Marsch 🇨🇦🎙️ The conversation quickly deepens as Jesse breaks down what has changed for Canada since he took charge — on the pitch, in the dressing room, and across the entire program. Jesse opens up about the balancing act of finding his best XI while experimenting tactically, offering an extended, thoughtful look at how he builds a team identity. We also explore how the World Cup draw will shape Canada’s tournament — including a fascinating comparison to his time at RB Leipzig. Then the discussion shifts to his coaching philosophy: how he manages the human side of players while integrating a highly data-driven approach. Jesse reveals the biggest differences between coaching a club and a national team, why he empowers players with freedom. We round things out with Canada’s ambitions for the World Cup, his candid thoughts on the country’s football infrastructure, and why developing young players and coaches is crucial for long-term success. Jesse also tackles the big question: Is Premier League scrutiny really as brutal as people say? Subscribe now on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode 🔔 0:00 - Intro 2:31 - Impact on Canadian National Team 05:20 - Lead Up To WC 2026 07:01 - How The Draw Can Dictate The World Cup 09:10 - Managing Players And The Data Side Of Football 10:55 - Difference Between International And Club Football 15:16 - Facing The USA 19:21 - Infrastructure Of Canadian Football 23:01 - Experience In The Premier League