Maxime Crépeau

World Cup 2026 Analysis

Maxime Crépeau's FIFA World Cup 2026 Prospects: A Critical Juncture

Canadian goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau is at a pivotal moment in his career as the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, with his prospects heavily influenced by recent club changes, injury recovery, and an intense battle for the starting national team role. Having recently signed with Orlando City for the 2026 season, Crépeau is aiming to solidify his position as Canada's No. 1 goalkeeper for the co-hosted tournament.

Latest News and Club Situation

As of late 2025, Crépeau confirmed his departure from the Portland Timbers and is set to join Orlando City, a move he hopes will secure consistent playing time ahead of the World Cup. He spent two seasons as the starter for the Timbers, making 35 starts and recording four clean sheets in 2025. This club transition underscores his determination to be in prime form for the global showpiece.

Injury Recovery and Return to Form

Crépeau's journey to the 2026 World Cup has been marked by a significant challenge. He suffered a broken lower leg in the 2022 MLS Cup Final, an injury that regrettably ruled him out of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. This severe injury required surgery and a lengthy recovery period, during which he maintained a strong sense of optimism and a clear goal of making it to the 2026 tournament. He made his return to the pitch in July 2023 with LAFC's MLS Next Pro side and then for the senior team, demonstrating his resilience and commitment.

Battle for Canada's No. 1 Spot

The competition for Canada's starting goalkeeper position is fierce, primarily between Crépeau and Dayne St. Clair. National team coach Jesse Marsch has indicated that the decision for the No. 1 spot will be made soon, with both goalkeepers getting opportunities to prove themselves.

Crépeau has a long history with the national team, making his senior debut in 2016 and accumulating 29 caps with nine clean sheets. He played a crucial role in Canada's qualification for the 2022 World Cup and was the first-choice keeper during the 2021 Concacaf Gold Cup, where Canada reached the semifinals. More recently, he featured in Canada's 2024 Copa América squad, where the team reached the semifinals, and started in an international friendly against Venezuela in November 2025, recording a clean sheet in a 2-0 victory.

However, Dayne St. Clair, the 2025 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year, has also been a strong contender, starting more prominent friendly matches and showcasing excellent form with Minnesota United. St. Clair was in goal for Canada's scoreless draw against Ecuador in November 2025. While there's an internal belief that St. Clair might have the "inside track," Crépeau's experience and leadership are highly valued by some.

Analysis of World Cup 2026 Prospects

Maxime Crépeau's prospects for the FIFA World Cup 2026 are strong, primarily due to his proven international experience, his successful return from a major injury, and his determination to play a key role in Canada's home World Cup. His recent move to Orlando City suggests a proactive step to secure regular first-team football, which will be crucial in the lead-up to the tournament. The ongoing competition with Dayne St. Clair is likely to push both keepers to perform at their highest level, ultimately benefiting the national team. While St. Clair has shown excellent recent form, Crépeau's track record in significant international matches and his leadership qualities suggest he remains a very strong candidate for the starting role, or at the very least, a vital member of the squad. Crépeau himself has expressed his unwavering commitment, stating, "There's no way I won't be here in 2026, absolutely no way!"