FIFA has approved Marcelo Flores' one-time switch from Mexico to Canada, making the 22-year-old winger eligible for the World Cup. The Arsenal academy product, who previously played three times for Mexico's senior team, was born in Canada and is now set to represent the Maple Leafs under coach Jesse Marsch.

Flores had been involved in a tug-of-war between the two nations since his debut for Mexico in 2021. Despite committing to El Tri, he failed to earn minutes for the senior squad after 2022. Canada had been pursuing the talented winger, bringing him in as a training player last November and calling him up in January before his change of association was finalized.

Currently playing for Liga MX side Tigres, Flores has started the 2026 season strong with three goals and an assist in seven games. With the World Cup approaching, he aims to secure a spot on Canada's roster for upcoming friendlies against Iceland and Tunisia. His switch comes as Mexico also welcomed Real Betis midfielder Álvaro Fidalgo through FIFA's change of association process.