Matt Turner’s USMNT Omission Raises World Cup Fears

Matt Turner’s USMNT omission has become a major talking point after the latest squad announcement for November 2025, sparking concerns about his future with the national team and his chances of featuring at the 2026 World Cup.

Matt Turner’s USMNT Omission: A Red Flag Ahead of 2026

Matt Turner’s USMNT omission is not just a temporary setback; it could have lasting consequences for the American goalkeeper’s international career. Former U.S. international Stuart Holden highlighted the alarming impact of Turner being left out of Mauricio Pochettino’s squad for the November friendlies, suggesting that Turner now finds himself “on the outside looking in” for both a roster spot and the number one shirt.

Turner’s Struggles for Game Time

The primary concern around Turner, currently on loan at New England Revolution from Olympique Lyonnais, is his lack of consistent minutes. Stuart Holden emphasized that Turner hasn’t played regular football over the last two years and, if he remains with New England Revolution as expected, he won’t feature in a competitive match until at least February or March. This lengthy absence from the pitch puts his sharpness and match fitness at risk—two crucial factors for any goalkeeper eyeing a spot in the World Cup squad.

Holden added that recent reports indicated Turner has been training with Crystal Palace to retain match fitness, yet he still failed to make the USMNT roster for the November window. For a player hoping to be the USMNT’s first-choice goalkeeper at the 2026 World Cup, this is a major concern.

USMNT’s Evolving Goalkeeper Options

Pochettino’s latest squad features Matt Freese (NYCFC), Roman Celentano (FC Cincinnati), Jonathan Klinsmann (Cesena), and Patrick Schulte (Columbus Crew), signaling a changing of the guard in the goalkeeper ranks. With Turner absent, his competitors now have a golden opportunity to impress and possibly cement their place in the pecking order.

Turner’s 2025 Performance Stats

After returning to MLS in August 2025 to boost his playing time, Turner played 10 matches for the New England Revolution, conceding 16 goals and keeping two clean sheets. Despite his efforts, the team struggled and failed to make the playoffs. The lack of high-stakes matches further limits Turner’s ability to showcase his skills at the top level.

Stuart Holden’s Honest Assessment

Holden didn’t mince words on the State of the Union podcast: “Matt Turner is not only on the outside looking in at a starting position, he’s on the outside looking in at a roster position, which is cause for concern for him. I don’t know what he can do other than play a great start of the season in the spring to put himself back in that position.”

What Next for Matt Turner and the USMNT?

With Turner’s pathway back into the USMNT looking increasingly difficult, the next few months are crucial. If he remains out of competitive action until spring, he’ll need a commanding run of form to break back into the squad, especially with other goalkeepers now staking their claim.

For USMNT fans and observers, this situation throws up a critical debate about managing player form versus loyalty to experienced internationals. Turner’s absence could open the door for a new generation of American goalkeepers, but it also means potentially losing a proven shot-stopper right before the nation’s most significant tournament on home soil.

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Opinion: A Wake-Up Call for Turner and USMNT

In my view, Matt Turner’s USMNT omission should be a wake-up call not only for the player but for the federation as well. Turner’s situation highlights the fine margin between being a national team regular and falling out of favor. With the World Cup approaching rapidly, both player and coach must make bold decisions to ensure the best talent is in top form. The next few months will be decisive—not just for Turner, but for the entire USMNT’s approach to 2026.