As the U.S. men's national team prepares for the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, March marks the crucial period where coach Mauricio Pochettino’s decisions could shape the squad for the tournament. With only a few friendly matches left before the team announces the final roster, the pressure is on for players to perform, proving their worth for a spot in the team.
The upcoming friendlies against Belgium and Portugal in March, followed by games against Senegal and Germany in May and June, will offer Pochettino the final opportunities to evaluate his squad before the team’s World Cup opener on June 12 against Paraguay. With no time left to waste, Pochettino’s approach is clear: every player must prove they deserve their place.
Pochettino’s Approach: No Guarantees for World Cup Spots
Pochettino has made it clear that no player’s spot is guaranteed, not even for the veterans like Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie, who are expected to return from injury in March. Despite the team’s successful finish to 2025, including an impressive 5-1 victory over Uruguay, competition for places in the squad remains fierce.
Players who are currently injured, such as defender Cameron Carter-Vickers (recovering from Achilles surgery), striker Ricardo Pepi (broken arm), and 2022 captain Tyler Adams (torn MCL), will have to prove their fitness if they are to be considered for the March friendlies. "If they are not fit, they are not going to be part of the roster in March," Pochettino stated, emphasizing that every player must earn their opportunity to represent the U.S. at the World Cup.
Freeman’s Move to Villarreal: Pochettino’s Blessing for Young Talent
One notable transfer under Pochettino's watch is the move of fullback Alex Freeman to Villarreal, a Champions League club in Spain. Freeman, who had an impressive debut season with MLS and the USMNT, will now face a significant leap in competition. Pochettino supports the move, as Freeman is confident that this step will help him grow as a player.
Pochettino’s stance on player transfers close to a major tournament, like the World Cup, is clear. "When you change, it’s because you are convinced that you're going to be better in that place than in the place that you are," he said, adding that Freeman had contacted him beforehand for advice. "I am not worried... It’s important that the player feels happy and believes it’s the right move for him and his family."
Pepi’s Return to Action: A Delicate Decision for Pochettino
Striker Ricardo Pepi is still recovering from injury and won’t return to action for PSV Eindhoven until mid-March, just before the international break. With March’s friendlies on the horizon, Pochettino expressed hope that Pepi would be fit in time to be considered for selection. "We’ll see how he's going to come back and start to play and perform," Pochettino said, emphasizing the need to assess Pepi’s form before making a decision.
McKennie’s Career-Best Season: A Boost for the USMNT
Weston McKennie’s impressive season at Juventus has been a bright spot for Pochettino, who previously left the midfielder off the USMNT roster in November, encouraging him to settle in under new manager Luciano Spalletti. McKennie’s consistent performances for Juventus have shown his growth as a player, which has pleased Pochettino. "It’s really good that he is playing in a regular way, being very consistent now in Juventus," Pochettino said. "We are happy that our player is performing."
