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USMNT Shifts Focus from MLS to Global Talent for World Cup

4/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

The United States men's national soccer team (USMNT) has reduced its reliance on Major League Soccer (MLS) players for the World Cup since 1996.
In the 1998 World Cup, 16 MLS players were on the roster, but none started in the 2022 final group match.
Head coach Mauricio Pochettino may prioritize established players like Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie over MLS players such as Diego Luna.
Despite fewer MLS players, 19 of the 27 predicted World Cup players were developed through MLS academies, reflecting the league's ongoing influence.
This trend may impact fan engagement while supporting MLS's focus on developing young talent.

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Story summary

The United States men's national soccer team (USMNT) has reduced its reliance on Major League Soccer (MLS) players for the World Cup since 1996.
In the 1998 World Cup, 16 MLS players were on the roster, but none started in the 2022 final group match.
Head coach Mauricio Pochettino may prioritize established players like Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie over MLS players such as Diego Luna.
Despite fewer MLS players, 19 of the 27 predicted World Cup players were developed through MLS academies, reflecting the league's ongoing influence.
This trend may impact fan engagement while supporting MLS's focus on developing young talent.