Who makes Mauricio Pochettino’s first USMNT roster? Who will they play?

The wait is over, and Mauricio Pochettino’s debut as head coach of the USMNT is just around the corner. In a little over a week, the Argentine tactician will officially take charge of the United States men’s national team, starting with a match against Panama in Austin, Texas, followed by a trip to Mexico to face El Tri.

Which players missed out on Pochettino’s first USMNT?

Today, Wednesday, the USMNT officially unveiled the roster chosen by Pochettino for his first two matches as head coach. There weren’t many surprises, as he leaned on a core group of players from recent call-ups under Mikey Varas and Gregg Berhalter. In total, 25 players will form part of the squad for this new era with the US national team.

Key regulars such as Matt Turner, Tim Ream, Antonee Robinson, Joe Scally, Brenden Aaronson, Johnny Cardoso, Weston McKennie, Yunus Musah, Folarin Balogun, and Christian Pulisic are all part of the list with which Pochettino will aim to get the most out of on his official debut.

One notable return is goalkeeper Zack Steffen, who had been left out of Berhalter’s recent squads. However, his return to MLS and Pochettino’s arrival have given him a new opportunity to prove himself with the national team.

Injuries, however, meant that some players who are seen as important to the group were not available. This included Sergiño Dest, Chris Richards and Gio Reyna, although Tim Weah did manage to make the list despite some doubts.

USMNT roster: Mauricio Pochettino reveals his first 25

Goalkeepers

Ethan Horvath, Patrick Schulte, Zack Steffen, Matt Turner.

Defenders

Marlon Fossey, Kristoffer Lund, Mark McKenzie, Tim Ream, Antonee Robinson, Miles Robinson, Joe Scally, Auston Trusty.

Midfielders

Brenden Aaronson, Gianluca Busio, Johnny Cardoso, Weston McKennie, Yunus Musas, Aidan Morris, Malik Tillman.

Forwards

Folarin Balogun, Ricardo Pepi, Christian Pulisic, Josh Sargent, Tim Weah, Haji Wright.