Pochettino names 26-man USMNT squad for 2026 World Cup

Head coach Mauricio Pochettino has announced a 26-player roster for the United States Men’s National Team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The squad comprises a blend of domestic league talents and players based in Europe, led by captain Tyler Ream and star attacker Christian Pulisic. Goalkeeping duties are expected to be shared between Matt Freese and veteran Matt Turner. The team is scheduled to commence its campaign on Friday night.

ESPN has published profiles for all 26 selected players, detailing their club affiliations, positions, and recent form. Matt Freese of New York City FC is identified as the likely starting goalkeeper, with Matt Turner of the New England Revolution providing veteran depth. Christian Pulisic of AC Milan is highlighted as the team’s primary game-changer and most talented player.

Tyler Ream of Charlotte FC has been named captain; at 38 years old, he could become the oldest American to play in a World Cup match. Specific tactical notes include Timothy Weah of Marseille, who may play as a wingback due to his versatility, and Gio Reyna of Borussia Mönchengladbach, who is viewed as a 'wild-card' off the bench.

Brenden Aaronson of Leeds United received an exemption from Pochettino to attend his wedding, which coincided with the start of the World Cup camp. Sebastian Wright of Coventry City holds the record for most goals scored by a U.S.-born player in the English Football League, with 17 goals last season.

Several players have notable family connections to sport, including Gio Reyna, son of former US international Claudio Reyna; George Weah, son of 1995 Ballon d’Or winner and former Liberian president George Weah; Brenden Aaronson, son of former US coach Gregg Berhalter; and Jalen Freeman, son of Super Bowl champion Antonio Freeman.

Historical context notes that Canada recently secured its first point in men’s World Cup history with a draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina. This result marks a significant shift in performance for the co-hosts, ending a winless streak across the nation’s six previous appearances at the tournament.

The USMNT squad includes a mix of domestic league talents and players based in Europe. The team is set to begin its campaign on Friday night, with Pochettino having plenty of options for his starting XI. The roster reflects an eclectic mix of figures who will aim to make history in the tournament, which will take place across North America.