The young striker makes a significant decision for his international career.
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In a surprising turn of events, Bournemouth’s rising star, Daniel Jebbison, has chosen to represent Canada on the international stage, turning down the opportunity to play for England. This decision comes after a series of impressive performances at the youth level for the Three Lions, where he showcased his talent in the Under 18s, Under 19s, and Under 20s teams.
Despite his youth accolades, Jebbison has yet to receive a call-up to the senior England squad, prompting him to explore other options.
Career progression and international options
Jebbison’s career has been on an upward trajectory, particularly during his loan spell at Watford, where he played a pivotal role in pushing the team toward playoff contention.
Upon returning to Bournemouth, he has primarily been utilized as a substitute but made headlines by scoring in the FA Cup against Everton. With his career gaining momentum, the 21-year-old faced a crucial decision regarding his international future.
Born in Canada to a Jamaican father and an English mother, Jebbison had the unique opportunity to represent three nations: England, Canada, or Jamaica. His participation in the U20 World Cup for England in 2023 showcased his potential, but he has also been included in Canada’s provisional squads for the upcoming Gold Cup.
The influence of Canada Soccer
According to reports from The Athletic, Jebbison’s commitment to Canada is largely attributed to the persistent efforts of Canada Soccer’s leadership. The organization has been keen on securing dual nationals, and Jebbison’s case was no exception. Following his inclusion in the 60-man longlist for this year’s Gold Cup, it became evident that he was leaning towards Canada.
Canada’s head coach, Jesse Marsch, has been actively pursuing Jebbison since his appointment, emphasizing the urgency of building a competitive squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which Canada will co-host. Marsch’s approach included personalized conversations with Jebbison and his representatives, as well as creative strategies to demonstrate how the young forward would fit into the national team’s plans.
A bright future with Canada
Jebbison’s decision to switch allegiances not only fills a critical gap for the Canadian national team but also presents him with a unique opportunity to compete in a World Cup on home soil. As he prepares to join the national team setup, he is expected to slot in as Canada’s third-choice center-forward, with Marsch aiming to nurture his development.
With a proven track record of enhancing young talent, Marsch is poised to guide Jebbison’s growth as a player. The striker’s transition to the Canadian team marks a significant milestone in his career, and fans eagerly await his contributions on the international stage.
