Mauricio Pochettino’s first roster as head coach of the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) for the October 2024 friendlies against Panama and Mexico is a blend of veteran players and a few fresh faces. While the Argentine coach largely favored experienced players, he has hinted at future changes as the team prepares for the 2026 World Cup.
Key players like Christian Pulisic, Yunus Musah, and Ricardo Pepi headline the 25-man squad, which came as no surprise. However, injuries sidelined key figures such as Tyler Adams, Sergiño Dest, Gio Reyna, and Cameron Carter-Vickers, limiting Pochettino’s options.
One of the most intriguing areas is the goalkeeper position. Matt Turner and Ethan Horvath, both regulars in the USMNT setup, remain in the squad, but Zack Steffen’s return signals a potential shake-up. Steffen, once the first-choice keeper, will compete with rising MLS talent Patrick Schulte, a sign of Pochettino’s willingness to reward not only young players, but young MLS players.
While Schulte’s inclusion gives MLS fans something to cheer about, several other exciting prospects were left out. Among them is Benjamin Cremaschi, a standout midfielder for Inter Miami who has impressed with his performances this season. Cremaschi, who is expected to play a significant role in the future, will have to wait for his opportunity. Similarly, Diego Luna, who has been in excellent form for Real Salt Lake after being snubbed from the Olympic squad, could have been a strong addition. There has been many who have called to see what the former USL standout could offer to the selection.
Pochettino’s decision to lean on experienced players is understandable for his first camp. It allows him to fairly evaluate the core of his squad. However, those looking for immediate change will have to look for it on the tactical side of things. The U.S. take the field October 12th against Panama.
Goalkeepers
– Ethan Horvath (Cardiff City)
– Matt Turner (Crystal Palace)
– Zack Steffen (Colorado Rapids)
– Patrick Schulte (Columbus Crew)
Defenders
– Cameron Carter-Vickers (Celtic)
– Marlon Fossey (Standard Liege)
– Kristoffer Lund (Palermo)
– Mark McKenzie (Toulouse)
– Tim Ream (Charlotte FC)
– Antonee Robinson (Fulham)
– Miles Robinson (FC Cincinnati)
– Joe Scally (Borussia Mönchengladbach)
– Auston Trusty (Celtic)
Midfielders
– Gianluca Busio (Venezia)
– Johnny Cardoso (Real Betis)
– Weston McKennie (Juventus)
– Aidan Morris (Middlesbrough)
– Yunus Musah (AC Milan)
– Malik Tillman (PSV Eindhoven)
Forwards
– Christian Pulisic (AC Milan)
– Timothy Weah (Juventus)
– Ricardo Pepi (PSV Eindhoven)
– Folarin Balogun (Monaco)
– Josh Sargent (Norwich City)
– Haji Wright (Coventry City)
– Brenden Aaronson (Leeds United)
T.T. DesRois | FBD Editor
