Alphonso Davies is not starting because Canada appears to be managing his return carefully after a recent hamstring injury, and coach Jesse Marsch has described the decision as more tactical than fitness-related. Reports also say Davies is available and ready to play, but the staff may be easing him back rather than rushing him into the XI.

What the reports say

  • Davies missed time after injuring his hamstring in a Bayern Munich match against PSG.
  • Canada’s coach said he is healthy enough to be available, but the team wants to judge the match situation before using him.
  • Some coverage frames the decision as a lineup choice, not a fresh injury setback.

Likely reason

The simplest read is: he’s fit enough to be on the bench, but Canada is protecting him and choosing a different starting setup. That usually happens when a player is coming back from injury and the staff wants to avoid overloading him too soon.

Quick scoop

He’s not starting because Canada is being cautious with his recovery and may be saving him for a later impact role.

Context

Davies has had a rough stretch with injuries, including longer-term setbacks mentioned in recent coverage, so teams are understandably careful with his minutes. If you want, I can also give you the latest lineup-specific reason for the exact match you mean.