Former England Youth International Daniel Jebbison Chooses to Represent Canada
Daniel Jebbison, the 21-year-old forward currently playing for Premier League club Bournemouth, has made a major decision in his international career: he will be switching his allegiance from England to Canada. The Canadian-born player, who had previously represented England at youth levels, was named to Canada’s preliminary squad for the 2025 CONCACAF Nations League Finals.
Jebbison's decision is a significant moment in his career and adds a promising talent to Canada’s national team. While he was born in Canada and is eligible to represent both England and Jamaica through his parents, Jebbison had spent years with England’s youth teams, including playing for the England U-20 squad at the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup. This switch to Canada represents a new direction for the forward, and it’s a decision that could reshape his future at both the club and international levels.
A New Chapter in Jebbison’s International Career
The decision to represent Canada comes with some formal steps. In order for Jebbison to officially play for Canada, his "Change of Association" must be approved by FIFA. Canada Soccer has confirmed that the process is underway, but the transfer has not yet been finalized. However, a source familiar with the situation shared that Canada Soccer is optimistic that Jebbison’s eligibility will be confirmed soon, potentially within the week, before the final 23-man roster for the 2025 CONCACAF Nations League Finals is named.
Players can usually make a one-time switch of allegiance if they haven't played a competitive match for a senior national team. Jebbison had represented England in youth competitions, but he has not yet appeared in a senior match for England, meaning his switch to Canada is well within the rules. Once the approval from FIFA comes through, he will be able to officially join Canada’s national team setup, opening the door to his international debut.
This move is a big win for Canada, as the national team is looking to strengthen its squad ahead of upcoming competitions, including the 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico. Adding a player of Jebbison’s talent to the mix will help Canada remain competitive in international football.
Jebbison’s Rise in the Premier League
Jebbison's decision comes at a time when his club career is still in its early stages, but the forward has already shown flashes of his potential. He first gained significant attention in 2021 when, at just 17, he made history by becoming the youngest player to score in his first Premier League start. Playing for Sheffield United against Everton, Jebbison’s goal secured a 1-0 victory for his team, making an immediate impact on England’s top-flight league.
That goal set the stage for what many believed would be a breakthrough season. However, Jebbison’s time at Sheffield United was followed by a loan move to Bournemouth, where he has continued to build on his potential. This season, while he hasn’t yet scored in his eight Premier League appearances off the bench for Bournemouth, he has managed to find the back of the net twice in two FA Cup appearances. His contributions in domestic cup competitions highlight that he remains an exciting prospect for the future.
Although his Premier League appearances have been limited, Jebbison’s time with Bournemouth is crucial for his development as a player. The more exposure he gets to top-flight football, the more ready he will be for the international stage. His versatility and potential to thrive in the Premier League make him an exciting addition to Canada’s squad.
Why Canada?
Jebbison's switch to Canada is an important step not just for the player but also for the Canadian national team. Canada has been on the rise in recent years, thanks to a new generation of talented players, including the likes of Alphonso Davies, Jonathan David, and Cyle Larin. With this new wave of talent, Canada has become more competitive on the world stage, qualifying for the 2022 FIFA World Cup for the first time in 36 years.
Jebbison’s inclusion adds to the growing pool of talent, and his commitment to the national team signals a bright future for Canadian football. His decision to represent Canada may also inspire more young players, particularly those born in Canada but raised in other countries, to consider playing for the Canadian national team. Jebbison’s choice reinforces Canada’s efforts to tap into a wider talent pool, both locally and abroad.
For Jebbison, representing Canada offers the chance to become a key player for a team that is only continuing to improve. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, this is an exciting time for the Canadian men’s national team, and Jebbison’s decision to join the fold could prove to be a pivotal one.
What’s Next for Jebbison?
With the 2025 CONCACAF Nations League Finals on the horizon, Jebbison could be in line for his first appearance for Canada in the near future. This tournament offers a great opportunity for the young forward to make his mark on the international stage and showcase his skills. As Canada continues to build momentum, the addition of Jebbison to the squad adds depth to the team’s attacking options and further strengthens their chances in future international competitions.
For Jebbison, the transition to international football with Canada is just the beginning. His potential in the Premier League, combined with the fresh opportunity to represent his birth country, sets the stage for what could be a promising international career. Whether he’s scoring goals for Bournemouth or playing for Canada, Daniel Jebbison’s journey is one to watch.
Daniel Jebbison’s decision to switch allegiances from England to Canada is a bold and exciting move for both the player and Canadian football. As one of the most promising young talents in the Premier League, his addition to Canada’s national team brings a new wave of hope and excitement to the country’s footballing future. If all goes as planned and his FIFA eligibility is confirmed, Jebbison’s debut for Canada could come soon, marking the start of a promising new chapter for both him and the national team.
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