USMNT’s next generation: The young gems Mauricio Pochettino could develop for the 2030 World Cup

The USMNT chose to stick with Mauricio Pochettino, a move that could preserve much of the core roster from the 2026 World Cup. However, a talent-packed new generation is already emerging, each eager to earn a spot for the next World Cup cycle.

The Argentine manager has called up 62 players to the national team during his tenure. Four made their debuts under him before going on to play pivotal roles at the 2026 World Cup.

Matt Freese, Max Arfsten, Sebastian Berhalter, and Alex Freeman all earned their first USMNT caps under Pochettino. Looking ahead to the 2030 cycle, fresh talent is on the horizon.

Pochettino’s next wave of talent

Despite the USMNT’s relatively young average age, Pochettino knows a hungry new generation is eager to win and represent the crest.

The top prospect is 16-year-old Cavan Sullivan, who has already signed a pre-contract with Manchester City and will join the club once he turns 18. He has recorded three goals and four assists in 2026.

Next on the list evokes memories of a young Christian Pulisic: 17-year-old Mathis Albert, who has already made his Bundesliga debut and looks ready to follow in the U.S. superstar’s footsteps.

Cole Campbell, who developed at Borussia Dortmund before signing with newly promoted German side SV Elversberg, is seeking regular minutes to force his way into Pochettino’s plans.

A potential cornerstone is also emerging at center back. 19-year-old Noahkai Banks, an undisputed starter for Augsburg in the Bundesliga, came close to making his senior international debut during the 2026 qualifying cycle.

Real Salt Lake’s Zavier Gozo has been another reliable performer in MLS, tallying six goals and four assists this year at just 19 years old.

Rounding out the group are 18-year-old New England Revolution left back Peyton Miller, who has chipped in four goals and an assist, and New York Red Bulls striker Julian Hall, who has notched nine goals and four assists this season.

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