Pochettino Announces 27-Player USMNT Roster for Friendlies

Mauricio Pochettino, head coach of the United States men's national soccer team, announced a 27-player roster on Tuesday for upcoming friendlies against Belgium on March 28 and Portugal on March 31 in Atlanta. The selections mark the team's first training camp of 2026 and signal a stabilizing core group as preparations intensify for the World Cup this summer.

The roster blends established veterans with players who have earned spots through recent performances, reflecting Pochettino's year-long rebuild after taking over in 2025. He convened more than 60 players across six camps last year, testing combinations and mindsets to move beyond the previous regime's dynamics. Now, with the World Cup approaching, the Argentine coach described this group as close to his preferred lineup, though not final. "The door is not closed. It's open," Pochettino said during a media call, emphasizing ongoing evaluations.

Notable absences include midfielder Tyler Adams, who missed Bournemouth's recent Premier League match due to illness after recovering from a torn MCL; right back Sergiño Dest, sidelined six to eight weeks by a hamstring strain; forward Haji Wright, out with a groin injury; and...