Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

U.S. Men's Team Roster: Key Stars Absent for Friendlies

5/23/2025

37 5

Summary

Pochettino Announces Roster

U.S. men's national team coach Mauricio Pochettino unveiled a 27-player roster for upcoming friendlies against Turkey and Switzerland, gearing up for the Gold Cup. Notably missing are stars Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, and Gio Reyna, sidelined by club duties and injuries. The Gold Cup kicks off on June 15, a vital step in their World Cup journey.

Summary

Pulisic Prioritizes Health

Christian Pulisic will sit out the Gold Cup, battling fatigue from a grueling season with AC Milan and a persistent hip flexor injury. U.S. Soccer's Matt Crocker emphasized this choice is to safeguard Pulisic's health for upcoming challenges, including the highly anticipated 2026 World Cup. Several other vital players are also sidelined due to club obligations.

History

Historical Context

U.S. men's national soccer team coach Mauricio Pochettino's roster announcement echoes the team's historical ups and downs. Notably, the U.S. reached the 1930 World Cup semifinals, their best finish. Missing key players like Pulisic reflects the challenges faced since their last Gold Cup win in 2017.

1 of 3

Pochettino Announces Roster

U.S. men's national team coach Mauricio Pochettino unveiled a 27-player roster for upcoming friendlies against Turkey and Switzerland, gearing up for the Gold Cup. Notably missing are stars Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, and Gio Reyna, sidelined by club duties and injuries. The Gold Cup kicks off on June 15, a vital step in their World Cup journey.

1 / 3