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Pochettino Names 26-Man US Roster, Opens vs Paraguay

5/27/2026

Summary

Pochettino Announces Squad

U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino announced a 26-player roster on May 26, 2026 in New York City.
The 26-player squad, led by Christian Pulisic, Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie, includes thirteen newcomers and thirteen 2022 returnees, goalkeepers Chris Brady, Matt Freese and Matt Turner, adds Alejandro Zendejas and Gio Reyna despite limited minutes, and omits Tanner Tessmann and Diego Luna because of injury.
United States opens versus Paraguay on June 12, 2026 at SoFi Stadium.

Summary

Nations Set Basecamps

Nearly 39 of 48 nations will set up base camps in the United States.
The U.S. team and Turkey will train at Irvine’s Sports Complex and Mesa’s Grounds.
Atlanta United, Sporting KC and New York Red Bulls sites will host squads.
SeatGeek senior director Chris Leyden advises fans to weigh ticket purchases against price drops.
Iranian national team moved its base from Tucson to Mexico after the U.S.–Israel war erupted.

History

Historical Context

On July 4 1988 FIFA awarded the senior men’s World Cup to the United States, citing its ready stadiums and the promise of a new professional league. The tournament ran June 17-July 17 1994, drew 3,587,538 spectators and spurred MLS’s launch in 1996. That legacy underpins the 2026 World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico with 48 teams across 16 venues.

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Pochettino Announces Squad

U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino announced a 26-player roster on May 26, 2026 in New York City.
The 26-player squad, led by Christian Pulisic, Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie, includes thirteen newcomers and thirteen 2022 returnees, goalkeepers Chris Brady, Matt Freese and Matt Turner, adds Alejandro Zendejas and Gio Reyna despite limited minutes, and omits Tanner Tessmann and Diego Luna because of injury.
United States opens versus Paraguay on June 12, 2026 at SoFi Stadium.

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