USMNT Roster Decisions: Did Pochettino Get It Right?

USMNT roster changes have put Mauricio Pochettino’s squad selection under the spotlight as the team gears up for September friendlies against South Korea and Japan. With the 2026 World Cup less than a year away, every decision now carries extra weight for the national team and its ambitious coach.

USMNT Roster: Pochettino’s Balancing Act

Mauricio Pochettino took charge of the USMNT in September 2024, inheriting high expectations and a talented player pool. Since then, his tenure has been a rollercoaster of injuries, off-field controversies, and tactical experimentation. The current roster for the upcoming clashes with South Korea (FIFA No. 23) and Japan (FIFA No. 17) reflects both Pochettino’s intent to solidify his base and his willingness to try new faces ahead of the World Cup.

Christian Pulisic, once at the center of national team drama, is back in the fold, aiming to put recent chaos behind him and focus on leading the USMNT attack. Josh Sargent, whose international opportunities have been inconsistent, gets another chance as the central striker. Yet, the squad list isn’t without its surprises, with several uncapped players potentially making their debuts.

Is Experimentation Too Late for the USMNT?

As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup intensifies, questions linger about Pochettino’s ongoing experimentation with the USMNT roster. While friendlies provide valuable opportunities to test new systems and personnel, the window for tinkering is quickly closing. With the manager having set a public target of reaching at least the quarterfinals, consistency and chemistry are critical.

Pochettino’s approach—mixing established stars like Pulisic with emerging talents—suggests he’s still searching for the optimal blend. While some argue this keeps competition high and the squad dynamic, others worry it could hinder the development of a settled starting eleven. The debate is especially relevant with the world’s eyes on the USMNT’s progress toward 2026.

Can Pulisic’s Return Steady the Ship?

The return of Christian Pulisic to the USMNT is significant. After months marked by off-pitch controversy, the AC Milan winger’s inclusion is seen as both a message of confidence and a necessity for the team’s attacking firepower. Pulisic remains arguably the most talented American player, and his leadership could be pivotal in galvanizing a team that has often lacked a clear identity in recent months.

However, the burden shouldn’t fall entirely on his shoulders. Success will depend on how well Pochettino integrates Pulisic with other attacking options and addresses defensive frailties exposed in past matches. The squad’s ability to gel quickly will be under scrutiny throughout the September friendlies.

Is the Time for New Faces Already Gone?

Handing debuts to new players so close to a major tournament is risky. While it can inject fresh energy, it can also disrupt established hierarchies and tactical cohesion. Pochettino’s gamble will be judged not just by friendly results, but by how well the team performs when the stakes are highest next summer.

Opinion: USMNT Roster Calls Demand Results

In my view, the time for experimentation with the USMNT roster is fast running out. Pochettino has one last window—these September friendlies—to fine-tune his squad before the road to the World Cup truly narrows. His willingness to bring back Christian Pulisic is a step in the right direction, but the focus must now shift to building chemistry and defining a clear tactical identity. For more news and updates on the USMNT’s World Cup preparations, visit for more news.