Bayern Munich is considering legal action against Canada over the perceived negligence that led to Alphonso Davies’ serious knee injury while on international duty.
The 23-year-old suffered the injury during Canada’s 2-1 victory over the United States, forcing him to leave the field in the first half. Initially, Canada downplayed the severity of the issue, allowing Davies to fly back to Munich on Monday. However, upon his return, the left-back continued to experience discomfort. After a thorough examination by Bayern’s medical team and an MRI scan at Säbener Strasse, it was confirmed that Davies had torn the cruciate ligament in his right knee.
Bayern Munich CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen was outspoken in his criticism of Canada Soccer, accusing them of failing in their duty of care.
“We demand a full explanation from Canada Soccer and expressly reserve the right to take legal action,” Dreesen told Bild. “Sending an obviously injured player with a bruised knee on a twelve-hour intercontinental flight without proper medical assessment is, in our view, grossly negligent and a clear breach of medical due diligence.”
Dreesen also highlighted that Davies had been experiencing muscular discomfort before the match and was still played in a game of little significance, given that Canada had already qualified to co-host the 2026 World Cup. “Risking the health of a key player like him is simply incomprehensible,” he added. “‘Phonzy’ is not to blame—he’s the captain, and he wanted to take responsibility. But it was the duty of the medical staff to protect him.”
As Davies’ injury occurred during international duty, Bayern Munich expects compensation from FIFA.
In response, Canada Soccer defended their medical team, stating in a statement to The Athletic: “Canada Soccer’s coaches and experienced medical staff are true professionals and have always prioritised player safety and wellbeing. Anything suggesting otherwise is untrue.”
Davies’ agent, Nedal Huoseh, also criticized Canada Soccer, asserting that his client should never have been on the field in the first place.
