USA squad announcement for 2026 World Cup: Pochettino's bet as hosts

⚡ Key points AI generated

United States plays its World Cup at home for the first time since 1994, with Pochettino betting on a three-center-back system to dominate possession and press high in Group D
Christian Pulisic (Milan) is the face of the project although he is going through a goalless streak, while Folarin Balogun (Monaco) is the main bet for goals
Pochettino rewards Gio Reyna despite his injuries and off-field noise, while Diego Luna is left out and Alex Zendejas (Club América) sneaks into the final stretch of the squad

United States kicks off their home World Cup (Group D) with the pressure of playing in front of their own fans. Pochettino is betting on defensive depth with three centre-backs and a clear idea: dominate possession and press high up the pitch.

🌟 Christian Pulisic (Milan) is the face of the project, though he arrives in a goal drought that's got the whole country on edge. Folarin Balogun (Monaco) is the gamble for the goals.

🎯 The USMNT is playing their World Cup at home for the first time since 1994. Pochettino has built a deep block, with a three centre-back system and plenty of legwork out wide.

❌ The snub: Diego Luna misses out; Alex Zendejas (Club América) sneaks in at the last minute.

🔙 Gio Reyna makes the cut despite injuries and off-field noise: Pochettino rewards the pure talent of Borussia's midfielder.

📋 Full squad · Manager: Mauricio Pochettino

🧤 Goalkeepers

Matt Freese (New York City), Matt Turner (New England Revolution), Chris Brady (Chicago Fire)

🛡️ Defenders

Sergiño Dest (PSV), Antonee Robinson (Fulham), Tim Ream (Charlotte), Chris Richards (Crystal Palace), Mark McKenzie (Toulouse), Miles Robinson (FC Cincinnati), Alex Freeman (Villarreal), Max Arfsten (Columbus Crew), Auston Trusty (Celtic), Joe Scally (Borussia M'gladbach)

⚙️ Midfielders

Weston McKennie (Juventus), Tyler Adams (Bournemouth), Brenden Aaronson (Leeds), Malik Tillman (Bayer Leverkusen), Sebastian Berhalter (Vancouver), Cristian Roldan (Seattle Sounders), Gio Reyna (Borussia M'gladbach)

⚽ Forwards

Christian Pulisic (Milan), Folarin Balogun (Monaco), Ricardo Pepi (PSV), Tim Weah (Marseille), Haji Wright (Coventry City), Alex Zendejas (Club América)

🏆 Group D

⚽ Opponents: Paraguay, Australia and Turkey

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Frequently asked questions

Who is the United States manager for the 2026 World Cup?

Mauricio Pochettino is the United States manager for the 2026 World Cup.

Which group is the United States in at the 2026 World Cup?

The United States is in Group D of the 2026 World Cup, alongside Paraguay, Australia and Turkey.

How many players does the United States call up for the 2026 World Cup?

The United States has a squad of 26 players for the 2026 World Cup, according to the FIFA format established for the tournament.

Where does the United States play its matches at the 2026 World Cup?

The 2026 World Cup is held in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The United States plays in Group D against Paraguay, Australia and Turkey.

Estados Unidos USMNT Convocatoria Mundial 2026 Pochettino Pulisic Anfitrión

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