FORMER Leeds boss and current Canada manager Jesse Marsch has blasted US President Donald Trump in an astonishing rant.
American-born Marsch is “ashamed” of Trump’s repeated comments about making Canada a 51st state.
Jesse Marsch has blasted US President Donald Trump
President Trump has repeatedly joked about Canada becoming a 51st state
Tensions have been rising between the neighbouring countries following Trump’s 51st state remarks, including proposed trade tariffs between the bordering nations.
Marsch took charge of Canada in May 2024 and could face the US in the final of the CONCACAF Nations League next month.
But the Wisconsin-born gaffer has hit back at Trump “insulting rhetoric” at the Concacaf Nations League media day in Los Angeles on Wednesday.
Marsch, 51, said: “If I have one message to our president, it’s lay off the ridiculous rhetoric about Canada being the 51st state.
“As an American, I’m ashamed of the arrogance and disregard we’ve shown one of our historically oldest, strongest and most loyal allies.
“These international tournaments, for Canada, mean something different now.
“Canada is a strong, independent nation that is deep-rooted in decency and it’s a place that values high ethics and respect.
“Unlike the polarised, disrespectful and often now hateful climate that is in the US.”
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Canada and the US recently met across two fixtures in the 4 Nations ice hockey competition, with the former winning the final 3-2.
The politically-charged nature of the tournament was hard to avoid.
Their first game descended into chaos with three fights breaking out between players in the first nine seconds, while the US national anthem was loudly booed.
American supporters also jeered the Canadian anthem, which was sung with different lyrics in protest about Trump’s statements.
After Canada won in overtime, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wrote on X: “You can’t take our country – and you can’t take our game.”
Marsch added: “When I look forward to a month from now I know this will fuel our team, the mentality and will that we have to play for our country.
“The desire to go after this tournament in every way and to show on and off the pitch exactly what Canadian character is.”
The politically-charged nature of the 4 Nations hockey tournament was hard to avoid
Marsch has won six of his 13 games in charge of Canada, who are seeking their first piece of silverware since 2000 in the Nations League.
Canada meet Mexico in the semi-finals on 21 March and the winner will face either the US or Panama in the CONCACAF final two days later.
Marsch – who previously coached the US team in 2011, before a successful career in the MLS – has quickly taken to Canadian culture.
He sings the national anthem and has plans to eventually move to Canada ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
The US, Canada and Mexico will share hosting duties in two years time.
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