The upcoming camp for the US men’s national soccer team marks a significant period for Mauricio Pochettino, who will have his first extensive opportunity to lead the squad come September 2024. However, he will be missing key players like Folarin Balogun, DeJuan Jones, and Sean Zawazuki due to injuries. With Walker Zimmerman, Nathan Harriel, and Paxten Aaronson stepping in, the team will look to prove themselves against Türkiye and Switzerland as they prepare for the Gold Cup.
Balogun is dealing with an ankle injury, adding to the challenges the team faces, especially since he previously suffered a shoulder injury following his appointment with Argentina. Balogun isn’t the only notable absence; stars such as Christian Pulisic, Antonee Robinson, Weston McKennie, and Gio Reyna are also sidelined.
This summer, as the Club World Cup takes place, some players are restrained from joining international duties to allow them rest, and Pulisic is among those not called up. While the lack of star players might not raise too many eyebrows for the Gold Cup, it is crucial leading up to next summer’s Men’s World Cup, as this tournament will be the last competitive match for the USMNT before they focus on World Cup preparations without qualifying rounds.
Pochettino’s time with the first team could be pivotal to advancing past the Concacaf Nations League, but improvements are necessary for success in his new approach. The absence of Balogun could open doors for Patrick Agyemang and Brian White, but if the forward line struggles to score, it may hinder the team’s potential.
USMNT Roster
Goalkeepers (4): Chris Brady (Chicago Fire; 0/0), Matt Freeze (New York City FC; 0/0), Zach Steffen (Colorado Rapids; 30/0), Matt Turner (Crystal Palace, ENG; 51/0)
Defenders (9): Max Arfsten (Columbus Crew; 3/0), Sergiño Dest (PSV Eindhoven, NED; 33/2), Alex Freeman (Orlando City; 0/0), Nathan Harriel (Philadelphia Union; 0/0), Mark McKenzie (Troyes, FRA; 19/0), Tim Ream (Crystal Palace, ENG; 24/1), Miles Robinson (FC Cincinnati; 32/3), Walker Zimmerman (Nashville SC; 0/0)
Midfielders (9): Brenden Aaronson (Leeds United, ENG; 47/8), Tyler Adams (Bournemouth, ENG; 44/2), Sebastian Berhalter (Vancouver Whitecaps, CAN; 0/0), Johnny Cardoso (Real Betis, ESP; 18/0), Luca de la Torre (San Diego FC; 24/1), Diego Luna (Real Salt Lake; 4/1), Jack McGlynn (Philadelphia Union; 0/0), Malik Tillman (PSV Eindhoven, NED; 17/0)
Forwards (5): Paxten Aaronson (FC Utrecht, NED; 1/0), Patrick Agyemang (Charlotte FC; 4/3), Damion Downs (FC Köln, GER; 0/0), Brian White (Vancouver Whitecaps, CAN; 4/1), Haji Wright (Coventry City, ENG; 15/4)
Fan Take
This news is significant for soccer enthusiasts as it highlights the potential and challenges facing the USMNT, especially with looming World Cup preparations. The developments in player dynamics could shape the future of American soccer, making the upcoming matches crucial for establishing team chemistry and confidence on the international stage.
