Pochettino says Banks remains undecided between US and Germany
The 19-year-old defender will not be considered for the United States’ next camp as he weighs his international future.
United States coach Mauricio Pochettino says Noahkai Banks has yet to decide whether to represent the United States or Germany, leaving the 19-year-old defender out of consideration for the team’s next camp.
Pochettino told reporters he had remained in contact with Banks, a Hawaii-born German-American centre-back, since the United States’ reported elimination by Belgium in the 2026 World Cup round of 16. Banks has not changed his position, Pochettino said, and remains undecided.
The next United States squad is expected to combine players from the World Cup roster with emerging prospects. It is being assembled ahead of exhibitions against Peru, Chile, Mexico and Canada.
Pochettino also cautioned against placing excessive expectations on teenage players. Although he did not name Philadelphia Union teenager Cavan Sullivan, his comments appeared to address the attention surrounding the 16-year-old, who has scored in each of the club’s previous three matches since Major League Soccer returned from its World Cup break.
The coach said young players need confidence and belief, but warned that comparisons with global stars can become dangerous for their careers. Sullivan’s inclusion in the next squad has not been confirmed.
