Pochettino faces injury crisis as USMNT finalises World Cup roster
With the final 26-player squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup set to be revealed on Tuesday, USMNT manager Mauricio Pochettino is grappling with significant injury setbacks that have reshaped the selection landscape.
Mauricio Pochettino is set to announce the final 26-player squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday, concluding a selection process heavily complicated by injuries to pivotal squad members. The manager must now finalise the roster and starting lineup based on recent club form and the outcomes of upcoming friendly matches, with the absence of key players forcing a reconfiguration of tactical options.
The selection puzzle has been significantly disrupted by the loss of Johnny Cardoso, who will undergo surgery on his right ankle, ruling him out of the tournament. Patrick Agyemang has also been ruled out due to an Achilles injury, despite a productive first season at Derby County. Additionally, Chris Richards remains a major uncertainty after sustaining torn ankle ligaments, with Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner describing his availability as a 50-50 chance for the UEFA Conference League final.
Pochettino’s decision-making has been further constrained by the injury-related exclusion of Tim Weah, who suffered an Achilles injury, and Sergiño Dest, who is also sidelined. The manager must now determine how to fill the voids in the midfield and defensive lines, with Tyler Tessmann emerging as the leading candidate to start alongside Tyler Adams if healthy.
The goalkeeper position remains a focal point of debate, with Matt Turner’s recent form contrasting with Ethan Freese’s consistency. Turner has contributed to New England Revolution’s strong start to the season, ranking third in save percentage among MLS keepers with significant playing time, though a recent error against Nashville SC has raised questions. Freese, meanwhile, has seen his goals prevented mark surge to 1.41, though he trails his primary competitors in overall metrics.
Defensive selections are equally complex, with Antonee Robinson and Cameron Carter-Vickers facing different challenges. Robinson has resumed his place in Fulham’s starting lineup, while Carter-Vickers’ absence due to an Achilles injury has opened opportunities for other centre-backs. The final roster will likely reflect Pochettino’s assessment of who can provide the necessary defensive solidity and attacking threat in the absence of several regular starters.
