The Concacaf Nations League semifinals are approaching, marking Mauricio Pochettino’s first opportunity to secure a trophy as the United States men’s national team manager. While injuries to key players like Sergino Dest, Antonee Robinson, and Folarin Balogun mean a full-strength squad isn’t available, Pochettino still has a wealth of talent to choose from when they face Panama on March 20 at 7 p.m. ET on Paramount+.
Having won this tournament three times in a row, there’s pressure on the USMNT to continue their winning streak as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup on home soil. With the Club World Cup overlapping with the Gold Cup this summer, this Nations League window is a valuable chance for Pochettino to work with these players in a competitive setting, making every minute crucial.
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Let’s explore the 23-man roster for the Nations League. Despite the absence of notable players like Brenden Aaronson and Alex Zendejas, Pochettino still has a strong squad at his disposal.
Goalkeepers
Patrick Schulte
Patrick Schulte, having impressed at the Olympics and January camp, is a promising player for the future. Coming from the Columbus Crew system, Schulte is arguably the best of the three goalkeepers at initiating attacks from the back. With more experience, he could potentially become the starting goalkeeper for the 2026 World Cup.
Zack Steffen
Zack Steffen, previously out of consideration due to form and injuries, was once the undisputed number one goalkeeper. Having rejoined the team during January camp, he’s now in contention for a starting position should the need arise.
Matt Turner
Matt Turner, a highly experienced player in the squad, may not be Crystal Palace’s first-choice goalkeeper, but he consistently performs well for the national team when called upon. This tournament marks Turner’s second opportunity to start in goal for the Nations League finals, following his role as the USMNT’s goalkeeper at the 2022 World Cup.
Defenders
Max Arfsten
Max Arfsten, the only natural left-back on the roster and a late addition, will play a critical role if Pochettino opts for a traditional back four. The Columbus Crew player, comfortable as a winger, is known for his forward runs, aligning with Pochettino’s preference for attacking fullbacks.
Cameron Carter-Vickers
Cameron Carter-Vickers, a consistent performer for Celtic, is a known quantity. Comfortable in a back three and strong in aerial duels, Carter-Vickers compensates for his lack of speed with excellent positioning, thanks to his growing high-level experience.
Marlon Fossey
Marlon Fossey, who earned his first cap under Mikey Varas against New Zealand, is attending his first camp under Pochettino. As a right-back who excels in attack, he offers a different profile compared to Joe Scally and is eager to prove himself and compete for a starting position.
Mark McKenzie
Mark McKenzie, performing well since his move to Toulouse in France, has always shown potential as an international-caliber center-back with consistent playing time. He’s now getting those opportunities, and with Chris Richards also in camp, the competition for center-back positions is intensifying.
Tim Ream
Tim Ream, showing no signs of decline, continues to deliver solid performances for Charlotte FC, silencing any doubts about his starting caliber. Having started at the 2022 World Cup, Ream is on track to repeat that feat in 2026 unless something changes.
Chris Richards
Chris Richards is competing with McKenzie for a starting center-back role alongside Ream, and is having a strong season for Crystal Palace. Versatile enough to play in a back three or as a fullback, Richards will be a valuable squad member even if he doesn’t start.
Joe Scally
Since becoming the primary right-back, Joe Scally has provided much-needed stability to the defense. While not flashy, Scally consistently contributes and is approaching 25 caps for the national team.
Midfield
Tyler Adams
Back with the USMNT for the first time since Copa America, Tyler Adams joins the team for his first camp under Pochettino. The Bournemouth midfielder is in excellent form, and Pochettino now has the World Cup first-choice midfield at his disposal, a promising prospect given Adams captained that squad.
Brian Gutierrez
Brian Gutierrez, added as an injury replacement, also participated in January camp under Pochettino. Playing under former USA coach Gregg Berhalter, Gutierrez is well-prepared for the demands of international soccer.
Diego Luna
Diego Luna, impressing at the Olympics, is taking the expected steps to contend for a World Cup roster spot. During January camp, Luna impressed Pochettino by continuing to play and providing an assist immediately after breaking his nose. Now, he needs to demonstrate his abilities at the highest level during a competitive camp.
Weston McKennie
Weston McKennie, a key player for both the USMNT and Juventus, is capable in many roles. This versatility is highly valuable under Pochettino’s system. Despite growing expectations, McKennie has consistently met them.
Giovanni Reyna
Giovanni Reyna, in his first camp under Pochettino, has faced limited playing time with Borussia Dortmund this season. Given the midfield depth, Reyna’s role remains uncertain despite his considerable talent.
Tanner Tessmann
Tanner Tessmann, already gaining experience in a double-pivot role under Pochettino, has demonstrated his strength in possession. He is adapting to playing for Lyon after leading the Olympic squad’s midfield.
Forwards
Patrick Agyemang
Patrick Agyemang’s scoring streak in his first two USMNT appearances has quickly raised his profile. A skillful player with a willingness to shoot from distance, the Charlotte FC player is exciting to watch when he’s on the field.
Jack McGlynn
Jack McGlynn’s free-kick ability and passing vision explain his growing prominence under Pochettino. However, it’s somewhat surprising to see him listed as a forward given his deeper role for his club. Pochettino’s tactical flexibility means McGlynn’s final position remains to be seen.
Dominic Ashworth