USMNT: Pochettino defines his team for the World Cup, end of experiments

The United States national soccer team, under the direction of Mauricio Pochettino, presents a call-up for the October international window that reflects a greater consolidation compared to the previous ones. This selection, with an eye on the World Cup, shows a more defined focus. The coach has been implementing a cultural change in the team, prioritizing performance. The reputation and past of the players are not decisive; what matters is the current performance. It’s exciting to see how players compete for a place on the team, regardless of their name. We have been working to change the culture and vision of the team. In the list are players who have answered this call, such as Tanner Tessmann from Lyon and Aidan Morris from Middlesbrough, who have shown consistent performance at their clubs.

Tessmann and Morris play regularly every week, and they need continuity to help us perform at our best.

Mauricio Pochettino

The return of players like Antonee Robinson, recovered from an injury, is also positive. Although he hasn’t yet regained his starting position at Fulham, Pochettino is confident in his progress. Other players, such as Yunus Musah and Joe Scally, have not yet reached the level required by the coach. Pochettino has avoided giving detailed explanations about their absences, making it clear that the priority is performance. Pochettino prefers not to communicate his decisions directly to the players, believing that performance on the field is the determining factor.

After months of testing, Mauricio Pochettino’s team for the October friendlies looks much more like the team that will compete in next summer’s World Cup. This philosophy contrasts with that of his predecessor, Gregg Berhalter, who was more communicative with the players. After the 2024 Copa América, the team needs a firmer direction, focused on competition. Players like Christian Pulisic, in excellent form, have a guaranteed place. Weston McKennie’s situation is less clear, and he is expected to compete for a spot in midfield. There is also competition in other positions, such as the goal, with Matt Turner and Matthew Freese. In attack, the competition remains open, with Weah and Zendejas fighting for a place. In short, the experimentation stage is over, and team selection is underway. Players will have to prove their worth on the field.