The American coach of Canada’s men national soccer team has a strong message for President Trump.

“If I have one message to our president, it’s lay off the ridiculous rhetoric about Canada being the 51st state,” Jesse Marsch stated on Wednesday in Los Angeles, before the upcoming Concacaf Nations League finals. “As an American, I’m ashamed of the arrogance and disregard that we’ve shown one of our historically oldest, strongest and most loyal allies.”

Marsch, who has a notable coaching background, is reacting to Trump’s discussions, which have included the possibility of using “economic force” to include Canada as part of the U.S. This stance has angered many Canadians, some of whom have responded by booing the American anthem at sports events.

Furthermore, Trump’s comments have taken a political turn, influencing viewership around events like the recent NHL’s inaugural 4 Nations Faceoff, which attracted millions of viewers.

“These international tournaments for Canada mean something different now,” Marsch reflected. “Canada is a strong, independent nation that values decency and respect — unlike the divisive climate we’re witnessing in the U.S.”

As we await the Nations League semifinals, the atmosphere is charged, further fueled by Trump’s remarks and the team’s determination to perform well against their U.S. counterparts.