The Concacaf Nations League semifinals are approaching, marking Mauricio Pochettino’s debut and opportunity to secure his first trophy as the United States men’s national team manager. Despite missing key players like Sergino Dest, Antonee Robinson, and Folarin Balogun due to injuries, Pochettino still has a strong roster for the match against Panama on March 20 at 7 p.m. ET, which will be broadcast on Paramount+.
Having won the previous three tournaments, there’s pressure on the USMNT to maintain their winning streak as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup on home soil. With the Club World Cup coinciding with this summer’s Gold Cup, this Nations League window represents a crucial competitive opportunity for Pochettino to work with these players.
Let’s examine the 23-man roster selected for the Nations League. While Brenden Aaronson and Alex Zendejas are notable absences, Pochettino still has a talented squad at his disposal.
Goalkeepers
Patrick Schulte
Patrick Schulte, who impressed during the Olympics and January camp, is a promising player for the future. Coming from the Columbus Crew system, Schulte excels at initiating attacks from the back, and with more experience, he could contend for the starting goalkeeper position at the 2026 World Cup.
Zack Steffen
Zack Steffen, once out of consideration due to form and injuries, was previously the primary goalkeeper for the USMNT for several years. After rejoining the team in January camp, he will be in contention for a starting position if needed.
Matt Turner
Matt Turner, a senior player in the squad, consistently performs for the national team even without being Crystal Palace’s starting goalkeeper. This is Turner’s second chance to start in the Nations League finals after leading the USMNT at the 2022 World Cup.
Defenders
Max Arfsten
Max Arfsten, the only natural left back on the roster, was a late addition but could be crucial if Pochettino uses a standard back four. Arfsten, comfortable as a winger, enjoys attacking, aligning with Pochettino’s preference for attacking fullbacks.
Cameron Carter-Vickers
Cameron Carter-Vickers, a reliable Celtic player, brings consistency. Capable in a back three and strong in aerial duels, Carter-Vickers compensates for his lack of speed with excellent positioning, backed by significant high-level experience.
Marlon Fossey
Marlon Fossey, who debuted under Mikey Varas against New Zealand, is in his first camp under Pochettino. As a right back who excels in attack, he offers a different approach compared to Joe Scally and needs to prove himself to contend for a starting role.
Mark McKenzie
Mark McKenzie, performing well after his move to Toulouse, France, has always shown potential as an international-level center back with consistent opportunities. He’s now getting those chances, and with Chris Richards also in camp, the center back hierarchy will become clearer.
Tim Ream
Tim Ream, showing no signs of decline, continues to deliver solid performances for Charlotte FC. A starter at the 2022 World Cup, Ream is on track to repeat that in 2026 if his form continues.
Chris Richards
Chris Richards, competing with McKenzie for a starting center back role alongside Ream, is having a strong season with Crystal Palace. Versatile enough to play in a back three or as a fullback, Richards will be a valuable squad member even if not a starter.
Joe Scally
Joe Scally, now the primary right back, provides stability to the defense. While not flashy, Scally consistently contributes and is approaching 25 caps.
Midfield
Tyler Adams
Tyler Adams returns to the USMNT for the first time since the Copa America and joins his first camp under Pochettino. The Bournemouth midfielder is in excellent form, and Pochettino now has the World Cup first-choice midfield available, a promising prospect especially with Adams as captain of that squad.
Brian Gutierrez
Brian Gutierrez, an injury replacement, also participated in January camp under Pochettino. Playing under former USA coach Gregg Berhalter, he is well-prepared for the demands of international soccer.
Diego Luna
Diego Luna, impressing at the Olympics, is taking the next step towards the World Cup squad. During January camp, despite breaking his nose, Luna insisted on staying in the match and immediately provided an assist, endearing himself to Pochettino. Now he needs to prove his abilities at the highest competitive level during this camp.
Weston McKennie
Weston McKennie, a key player for both the USMNT and Juventus, is highly versatile. This adaptability is valuable under Pochettino, and McKennie consistently meets rising expectations.
Giovanni Reyna
Giovanni Reyna, in his first camp under Pochettino, has had limited playing time with Borussia Dortmund this season. Despite his talent, his role in the midfield remains uncertain given the numerous options available.
Tanner Tessmann
Tanner Tessmann, already gaining experience in a double-pivot role under Pochettino, has demonstrated his ball control and is adjusting to Lyon after leading the Olympic midfield.
Forwards
Patrick Agyemang
Patrick Agyemang’s rapid rise is fueled by scoring in his first two USMNT appearances. A skilled player with a penchant for shooting, the Charlotte FC forward is exciting to watch when he takes the field.
Jack McGlynn
Jack McGlynn’s ability with free kicks and passing vision explains his growing prominence under Pochettino, though his listing as a forward is somewhat surprising given his deeper club role. Pochettino’s tactical flexibility means McGlynn’s final position remains to be seen.
Adrian Whitmore