Mauricio Pochettino has officially locked in the 26-man USMNT World Cup roster, blending seasoned 2022 veterans with exciting tournament debutants.
The countdown to the World Cup is officially on. USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino has finalized his 26-man roster, locking in the squad tasked with leading the Stars and Stripes onto the world stage. Following days of intense media speculation, the official announcement in New York confirmed the precise blueprint for the upcoming tournament.
Pochettino’s selection strikes a deliberate balance between tournament experience and fresh energy. Exactly half of the roster features returning veterans from the 2022 campaign in Qatar, including eight core starters who anchored the team’s previous run. The remaining 13 spots belong to a hungry group of debutants set to experience the tournament for the first time.
While the names are out, Pochettino still has a bit of logistical breathing room. The roster remains fluid until the official FIFA submission deadline on June 1, allowing for injury replacements up until 24 hours before the opening match.
The USMNT officially kicks off its World Cup journey on June 12 against Paraguay.
The squad in full
Goalkeepers: Chris Brady (Chicago Fire), Matt Freese (New York City), Matt Turner (New England Revolution)
Defenders: Max Arfsten (Columbus Crew), Sergino Dest (PSV), Alex Freeman (Villarreal), Mark McKenzie (Toulouse), Tim Ream (Charlotte FC), Chris Richards (Crystal Palace), Antonee Robinson (Fulham), Miles Robinson (FC Cincinnati), Joe Scally (Borussia Monchengladbach), Auston Trusty (Celtic)
Midfielders: Brenden Aaronson (Leeds United), Tyler Adams (AFC Bournemouth), Sebastian Berhalter (Vancouver Whitecaps), Weston McKennie (Juventus), Christian Pulisic (AC Milan), Gio Reyna (Borussia Monchengladbach), Cristian Roldan (Seattle Sounders), Malik Tillman (Bayer Leverkusen), Tim Weah (Marseille), Alejandro Zendejas (Club America)
Forwards: Folarin Balogun (AS Monaco), Ricardo Pepi (PSV), Haji Wright (Coventry City)