Canada calls up Jayden Nelson to replace injured Marcelo Flores for World Cup

Winger Jayden Nelson has been added to Canada’s 2026 World Cup squad, taking the place of Marcelo Flores, who underwent ACL surgery after injuring his right knee while playing for Tigres UANL in the CONCACAF Champions Cup. Nelson, 23, has scored three goals in 14 senior appearances, including a stoppage‑time winner against Uzbekistan in Edmonton.

Nelson spent last season with the Vancouver Whitecaps, recording two goals and six assists, before being transferred to Austin FC in December to secure more playing time. He previously rose through the Toronto FC academy and played for Norway’s Rosenborg. Canada open the tournament on Friday against Bosnia‑Herzegovina in Toronto, with group‑stage matches versus Qatar (June 18) and Switzerland (June 24). Coach Jesse Marsch also continues to monitor defender Moïse Bombito, who is recovering from a fractured tibia.