Switzerland Faces Canada Amid Growing Calls for Johan Manzambi’s Inclusion

Swiss head coach Murat Sure is facing mounting pressure to include Johan Manzambi in the starting lineup for today’s clash against Canada. Manzambi, currently with Freiburg, delivered a standout performance in the 4-1 victory over Bosnia, netting two goals—including a spectacular over-the-shoulder volley that stands as one of the tournament’s finest strikes to date.

When questioned about Manzambi during yesterday’s press conference, the head coach remained guarded and non-committal.

“I have several options,” Yakin responded. “Johan is an option for me both as a starter and as a substitute.”

Despite Yakin’s diplomatic response, the tactical argument for Manzambi’s start is strong. Against Bosnia, Yakin initially deployed a 4-3-1-2 formation, featuring captain Granit Xhaka, Michel Aubischer, and Remo Freuler in deeper roles supporting attacking midfielder Fabian Rieder. This setup struggled for creativity; Switzerland only began to look truly dangerous after shifting to a 4-2-3-1 formation with Manzambi positioned on the right.

This deployment was unexpected, as Manzambi rarely occupies a wide role for Freiburg in the Bundesliga, typically operating as an attacking central midfielder.

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