Key Takeaways
- US coach Mauricio Pochettino selects 13 uncapped players for upcoming friendlies.
- The matches include games against Peru, Chile, Mexico, and Canada.
- Pochettino aims to give opportunities to young players for the 2027 Gold Cup, 2028 Olympics, and 2030 World Cup.
US coach Mauricio Pochettino has named a youthful squad for the upcoming friendlies against Peru, Chile, Mexico, and Canada. The matches, scheduled for September 26 to October 6, are part of the team's new cycle leading up to major tournaments.
Among the 28 players selected, 13 are uncapped, providing a fresh start for the team. Pochettino emphasized the importance of giving opportunities to young talent, stating, 'It’s about opportunity, give the opportunity and take the opportunity.'
The roster includes 16-year-old Cavan Sullivan, who has impressed with the Philadelphia Union in Major League Soccer, scoring six goals and providing 11 assists in 23 regular-season games. Pochettino highlighted Sullivan’s potential, saying, 'He deserves all the prizes and he deserves to be with us.'
Pulisic, a star player, and striker Folarin Balogun were left out of the squad due to recent injuries. Pochettino explained, 'I think the 28 players that are going to be involved in these four games, for different circumstances, are the best players that we want to see and want to play and want to work.'
The upcoming matches are crucial for the US team as they prepare for the 2027 Gold Cup, 2028 Olympics, and 2030 World Cup. Pochettino’s approach is to focus on the present, stating, 'Of course, all have the door open. But now it’s not what I did in the past… Now it’s about today.'
The first match is against Peru on September 26 in Orlando, followed by games against Chile in St. Louis, Missouri, on September 29, Mexico in Glendale, Arizona, on October 3, and Canada in St. Paul, Minnesota, on October 6.
Pochettino’s strategy is to build a new cycle with fresh opportunities, ensuring that the team is well-prepared for the upcoming tournaments. The coach’s focus on young talent is a clear indication of his vision for the future of US soccer.
With the 2027 Gold Cup, 2028 Olympics, and 2030 World Cup all on the horizon, Pochettino is setting a new standard for the team. The upcoming matches will be a crucial test for the young players and a stepping stone towards achieving the team’s goals.
I think the 28 players that are going to be involved in these four games, for different circumstances, are the best players that we want to see and want to play and want to work.
Mauricio Pochettino, US coach
He deserves all the prizes and he deserves to be with us and it’s going to be a great opportunity for us to know him.
Mauricio Pochettino, US coach
