Pochettino's USMNT Selection: What He Got Right And What He Got Wrong

Pochettino's USMNT squad for the home World Cup gets the spine exactly right and the wide areas exactly wrong. Pulisic, McKennie, Adams, Balogun — the core is correct. The depth choices on the flanks and at backup striker are where Pochettino has gambled, and where the host nation is most exposed.

That is the honest read on a 26-man selection that will be dissected for the next ten days before June 12 arrives and the real thing begins.

Why Pochettino Got The USMNT Spine Exactly Right For 2026

Start where it counts. Christian Pulisic as captain and attacking reference point is not a debate — it is settled. Eighty-two caps, a genuine Champions League performer at AC Milan, the only American player that any serious opponent genuinely plans around. Pochettino's decision to captain him and build the system around his movement is the best call in this squad announcement, full stop.

Weston McKennie and Tyler Adams in the double pivot is equally sound. McKennie's box-to-box energy brings progression and physicality. Adams brings structure, press-triggering, and the ability to break up play before it becomes dangerous. Together they cover the ground that a high defensive line requires. This is the same logic Pochettino used at club level — the technical, tireless midfielder pairing that allows the attack to stay high.

Folarin Balogun up top completes the spine. His profile — link play, movement in behind, comfort in possession — fits what Pochettino demands from a lead striker better than any pure poacher could. Ricardo Pepi off the bench is not a consolation; it is a genuine weapon for the 70th minute. More on that in a second.

And Antonee Robinson at left-back is a genuine strength this squad carries. Left-back is where most national teams limp into tournaments. Robinson gives the USMNT a player who can beat his man, overlap effectively, and defend at a high level. That flank is not a concern.

How Pochettino's Wing Selections Leave The USMNT Exposed

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