How Ronaldinho inspired Derek Cornelius to be a footballer
In a 1-on-1 interview, Cornelius discusses the impact the Brazilian had on him, blossoming under Jesse Marsch, and much more.
Derek Cornelius was part of Canada's squad at the 2o22 FIFA World Cup, but he never got off the bench as former coach John Herdman prized other centre backs ahead of him.
Fast forward four years and Cornelius, a 28-year-old from Ajax, Ont., is set to be Canada's defensive anchor at this summer's World Cup.
Cornelius has one goal in 44 appearances (29 starts) since debuting for Canada under Herdman in 2018. But it's been since Jesse Marsch took charge in 2024 that Cornelius has established himself as a starter and key player for the Canadians.
In this one-on-one interview with TFC Republic, Cornelius talks about his time under Marsch, how he fell in love with the game as a kid while watching Ronaldinho play at the World Cup, and much more.
