Another international break has concluded for the United States men`s national team, marked by disappointing defeats against Panama and Canada, with only a single goal scored. As the World Cup approaches, questions are mounting for coach Mauricio Pochettino and the USMNT, primarily focusing on the team`s depth.
The presence of players like Folarin Balogun, Sergino Dest, and Antonee Robinson might have altered outcomes. However, historically, the USMNT often enters major tournaments with key injuries, and the broader roster (players ranked 12-18) hasn`t consistently demonstrated the ability to effectively fill those gaps. This issue is compounded when talented players such as Gio Reyna struggle for club playing time, further weakening the team`s depth.
Despite the setbacks, some players showed promise during this camp. However, concerns about the team`s potential ceiling are valid as opportunities for competitive matches decrease. Upcoming friendlies against Türkiye and Switzerland in June, preceding the Gold Cup, are scheduled. Even then, Pochettino might face roster limitations due to the Club World Cup involving Juventus and Borussia Dortmund.
Before these future games, let`s assess which players have potentially improved their standing after this international break:
Stock up: Diego Luna
While Gio Reyna faces limited playtime, Diego Luna demonstrated his capacity to inject dynamism into the midfield and his willingness to take initiative in a central role. A match against Panama would have been a valuable test, but the Real Salt Lake midfielder capitalized on his opportunities, providing an assist against Canada and executing several ambitious passes that might be beyond the comfort zone of other midfielders. In the absence of effective wing-backs, creativity was essential, and Luna delivered. Although there`s still development needed and competition for midfield spots is intense, Luna deserves consideration for the Gold Cup roster, assuming he remains fit.
Stock down: Weston McKennie
Deployed as a number 10 against Panama and then in a deeper midfield role versus Canada, McKennie experienced a challenging window. His defensive contributions were adequate, but his attacking play was insufficient. Opposing teams employed tighter defensive formations against the USMNT midfield than he typically encounters. This reflects a broader issue within the team: when key players underperform, the team`s overall effectiveness diminishes. For the USMNT to succeed under difficult circumstances, numerous factors need to align positively. McKennie`s fluctuating role, dependent on the coach`s tactical needs, means his subpar performances often coincide with the team`s struggles. Finding a solution is pressing, especially given the limited midfield options.
Stock up: Chris Richards and Tim Ream in defense
Currently, the preferred central defensive partnership for the USMNT is clear. While establishing a first-choice pairing is positive, the fact that it includes a 37-year-old center back and another with a history of injuries raises concerns. Ideally, the strongest USMNT defense, when fully available, should consist of Antonee Robinson, Tim Ream, Chris Richards, and Sergino Dest, playing in front of Matt Turner. Joe Scally has performed capably as a substitute, but his attacking contributions are less significant. Ream`s composure and organizational skills are so vital that their absence disrupts the team`s defensive structure. Richards, despite occasional errors, compensates with speed and resilience, quickly recovering mentally during games. This situation underscores the depth challenges Pochettino faces. However, as the World Cup nears, prioritizing the best available players, including Richards and Ream, is crucial.
Stock down: Christian Pulisic
The team`s success is heavily dependent on Christian Pulisic`s performance, and during the Nations League, his impact was limited. This international break was among Pulisic`s least effective for the USMNT. While he is expected to rebound, being the national team`s star player means consistent high-level performance is essential for victories. Pulisic faces immense pressure, and unless other players emerge to become match-winners during his off days, this pressure will persist and likely intensify as the World Cup approaches.
Stock up: Patrick Agyemang
When Patrick Agyemang has possession, he evokes a sense of unstoppable force reminiscent of a prime Jozy Altidore, suggesting he will overcome any obstacle to score. With three goals in four appearances for the USMNT, Agyemang is now firmly in contention within the crowded forward pool. His goal against Canada wasn`t technically perfect, but consistent shots from advantageous positions often lead to goals. Complementing Ricardo Pepi`s speed off the bench, Agyemang offers a different, physically imposing option for the USMNT attack, capable of challenging defenses late in games.
Dominic Ashworth