Marcelo Flores made one of the most important decisions of his career when he chose to represent Canada instead of Mexico. Now, as preparations ramp up for the 2026 World Cup, the attacking midfielder has opened up about what motivated that choice.

“Always wanted to come back”

In the lead-up to a double-header of Canada friendlies in Toronto, the Tigres player spoke with OneSoccer, addressing everything from his identity to his soccer development and the path that ultimately led him to the Reds.

Flores, born in Georgetown, Ontario, reflected on his early years in Canada as a defining stage in his growth - both on and off the pitch.

“Those first 12 years in Canada, I wouldn’t ask to change it. I always wanted to come back,” said the midfielder, who spent his childhood in the country before beginning his journey in European soccer.

His development began at Guelph SC, where he was coached by his father - a period he considers crucial to his evolution.

Choosing a national team

Switching federations was no small decision, especially considering that Flores had previously been involved in Mexico’s youth national team setups. However, the player explained that his connection to Canada ultimately proved decisive.

With the 2026 World Cup approaching, the midfielder is now aiming to secure a spot on the final roster - in a cycle where the Canadian team will benefit from playing as a host nation.

Turned down Toronto

One of the most eye-catching revelations from the interview was Flores’s account of the opportunities he had as a young player in Canada. He revealed that he received overtures from Toronto FC’s academy but chose not to accept them.

“I had a lot of offers from Toronto FC‚” he explained. “But I never took them to develop with my father. I feel it was a good decision, but also it wouldn’t be a bad decision to play for Toronto. But I think probably my career would’ve stopped there. So I think my dad did a good thing.”

After his formative years in Canada, Flores made the jump to European soccer when he was identified at a camp by a coach from Ipswich Town, a club he joined following a successful trial.

He later moved to Arsenal’s academy before continuing his development in Spain with Real Oviedo. Since 2023, he has played for Tigres, where he has established himself as a first‑team contributor.

Now, back in Canada for the March FIFA window, Flores joins a national team that will take on Iceland and Tunisia at BMO Field - one of the final chances to make his case to the coaching staff ahead of the World Cup.

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