Pochettino’s USMNT squad prioritises tactical flexibility amid midfield depth concerns
With only four natural defensive midfielders selected, Mauricio Pochettino has named a squad built on adaptability, featuring late inclusions Alex Zendejas and Alex Freeman, ahead of the June 12 fixture against Paraguay.
Mauricio Pochettino has announced the United States men’s national team squad for the World Cup, a selection process defined by a strategic emphasis on tactical versatility rather than traditional positional depth. The Argentine manager, making his debut as an international head coach, utilised an unconventional communication method for the announcement, sending video messages and emails to players. This approach was informed by Pochettino’s personal experience of missing out on the 1994 World Cup as a player, a decision he described as painful but necessary.
The roster features significant breakthroughs for Alex Zendejas and 21-year-old Alex Freeman. Zendejas secured his place after a strong finish to the 2026 season, recording six goals and three assists while playing for Club America. Pochettino highlighted Zendejas’ unique profile, noting his ability to operate effectively on the wing or in an inside role, alongside his tactical flexibility and positive human qualities. Freeman, who recently qualified for Champions League football with Villarreal while in Spain, was also named, marking a rapid rise from his first start for Orlando City SC to the international stage.
A primary structural concern for the squad is the limited depth in defensive midfield, with only four natural players selected for the 26-man list. To mitigate this, Pochettino has identified Malik Tillman, Gio Reyna, Sergino Dest, and Freeman as players capable of stepping into central midfield positions if required. Consequently, the team’s performance will rely heavily on the health and availability of key midfielder Tyler Adams, who provides essential coverage that allows the side to push forward.
Pochettino defended the selection criteria by pointing to the squad’s ability to adapt to various formations, including a back four or three, and playing with either one or no holding midfielders. He cited recent matches against Jamaica, where players such as Antonee Robinson and Tim Weah were utilised in non-traditional roles, as evidence of the team’s capacity for tactical fluidity. The manager stated that this flexibility is designed to prevent opponents from predicting the USMNT’s style of play.
The announcement process also drew mixed reactions regarding its execution. While Brenden Aaronson described receiving the video message as one of the proudest moments of his career, the method bypassed the traditional live announcement, missing an opportunity to capture immediate player reactions. Freeman, who learned of his selection while in Spain with his father, expressed a focus on reviewing film to maintain his form and continue improving ahead of the tournament.
The USMNT is scheduled to face Paraguay on June 12, marking the start of their World Cup campaign. Pochettino indicated that the results when the lights turn on will be critical in defining his tenure, with the squad’s ability to manage injuries and rotation during the tournament serving as a key test of his strategic approach.
