Pochettino selects defensive-heavy 26-man USMNT roster for 2026 World Cup

Mauricio Pochettino has finalised the 26-man United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a tournament jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The selection is characterised by a defensive-heavy structure, featuring ten defenders and Tyler Adams as the sole designated defensive midfielder, following the exclusion of Tanner Tessmann and Aidan Morris. Notable inclusions include Gio Reyna and Alex Zendejas, while Diego Luna was omitted from the final list. The squad retains experienced figures such as Christian Pulisic and Tim Ream, alongside goalkeepers Matt Freese and Matt Turner.

The roster composition reflects a strategic shift towards defensive stability, with Pochettino utilising a back three system that requires significant depth in central and wide defensive positions. Ten players were selected for these roles, including Sergino Dest, Antonee Robinson, Chris Richards, Tim Ream, Mark McKenzie, Miles Robinson, Alex Freeman, Auston Trusty, and Joe Scally. Richards has emerged as a central figure in the defence, described by teammates as a steady and confident leader, while Ream provides veteran experience and tactical adaptability from his time in the English Premier League.

In the midfield, the absence of Tessmann and Morris leaves Adams as the only true defensive midfielder, a role he has held since the 2022 World Cup. Pochettino has relied on Adams’ experience and positional discipline to anchor the team, while other midfielders such as Brenden Aaronson, Malik Tillman, and Sebastian Berhalter provide versatility and attacking support. Tillman, who has thrived under Pochettino’s open-door policy, is expected to play a key role in the team’s possession-based approach.

The attacking line-up features a mix of established stars and emerging talents. Christian Pulisic, the team’s most prominent attacker, enters the tournament despite a recent goal drought, with Pochettino expressing confidence in his ability to contribute. Folarin Balogun, who has scored 45 goals in league play for Monaco, is seen as a crucial addition to the forward line, offering a proven scoring threat. Ricardo Pepi and Tim Weah provide additional options, with Pepi returning to the national team after missing the 2022 World Cup and Weah offering versatility across the front line.

Goalkeeping duties are shared between Matt Freese and Matt Turner, with Freese expected to start following his strong performances in recent competitions. Turner, who was the starter in 2022, returns as an understudy, while uncapped goalkeeper Chris Brady is included as a third option. The inclusion of Brady, a product of the Chicago Fire academy, signals Pochettino’s willingness to consider younger talent for the future, even as the immediate focus remains on the World Cup campaign.