USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino emphasizes chemistry, player development and competition as the United States begins its journey toward the 2030 World Cup.
ATLANTA, November 4, 2026 — U.S. Men’s National Team head coach Mauricio Pochettino has announced his 25-player roster for the upcoming Concacaf Nations League quarterfinals against Haiti, combining established international veterans with emerging American talent as the program begins its first official competition of the 2030 World Cup cycle.
Following a perfect four-win September and October stretch, including victories over Mexico and Canada, the United States enters the two-leg series looking to capture its fourth Nations League championship.
During Wednesday’s media availability, Pochettino emphasized that the selections represent more than immediate results. They are also an opportunity to evaluate chemistry, develop younger players and expand the national team’s options.
“The most important is the combination, to see the chemistry in between,” Pochettino explained, noting that several younger players will be working alongside veterans such as Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie for the first time.
Pulisic, McKennie and Folarin Balogun return to the squad following the 2026 World Cup, joining a developing generation that includes Cavan Sullivan, Julian Hall, Justin Ellis and Mathis Albert.
Pochettino’s Confidence in Mathis Albert
One of the press conference’s strongest endorsements came when Pochettino discussed Borussia Dortmund midfielder Mathis Albert, whose limited club minutes have not diminished the manager’s confidence.
“For me Matisse is one of the most talented players in the USA,” Pochettino said, explaining that Albert possesses qualities difficult to find elsewhere in the player pool.
He suggested that national team opportunities could help rebuild Albert’s confidence and potentially improve his prospects at Dortmund.
“Now is the moment to really trust. Now is the moment to really believe in him,” Pochettino added.
Competition Remains Open
Pochettino also confirmed that the coaching staff is monitoring more than 100 players, reinforcing that established names are not guaranteed positions.
Newcomers Reed Baker-Whiting and Santiago Castañeda receive their first senior call-ups, while Bryan Reynolds returns to the national team setup.
“The national team is open,” Pochettino stated, emphasizing the importance of testing emerging talent in meaningful competition.
He also addressed Ricardo Pepi’s absence, explaining that the forward would benefit from additional time developing his fitness rather than returning prematurely.
Meanwhile, Balogun’s inclusion provides an opportunity to rebuild confidence following a difficult summer, with Ellis and Hall offering fully fit alternatives.
Reyna, Freeman and the American Development Pipeline
Pochettino praised Gio Reyna’s progress at Strasbourg, pointing to consistent playing time as an important factor in his improving confidence and fitness.
“In the last camp, he was amazing. He was fantastic,” Pochettino said.
The manager was equally enthusiastic about Alex Freeman’s development following his move from MLS to Villarreal, describing the transition to La Liga as a significant step.
Pochettino credited American clubs, coaches and development systems for preparing players to compete at increasingly demanding levels overseas.
Haiti Presents an Immediate Test
Despite the excitement surrounding the roster, Pochettino warned against overlooking Haiti, highlighting the opponent’s physicality and quality.
“It’s important to show respect,” he said, anticipating two difficult matches.
The United States opens the series November 14 at Nu Stadium in Miami before hosting the return leg November 17 at TQL Stadium in Cincinnati.
For Pochettino, the immediate objective remains advancing to the Nations League semifinals. But the broader message is clear: the next generation of American soccer talent is being given an opportunity to establish itself alongside the country’s most recognizable stars.
And with the 2030 World Cup cycle underway, those opportunities could prove invaluable.
