Salt Lake star set for surprise World Cup woe?

We’re just days away from finding out Mauricio Pochettino’s 26-man squad to represent the U.S. men’s national team (USMNT) at the 2026 World Cup.

With the announcement set for an event in New York on Tuesday, May 26, some reports are pointing to what could be one of the biggest surprises on Pochettino’s roster: Diego Luna appears headed for omission.

According to The Athletic, Luna - along with his club, Real Salt Lake - has reportedly been told he will not be included in the final World Cup squad, a decision that would undoubtedly rank among the most unexpected calls.

A USMNT regular

Since earning his first call-up in January 2025 under Pochettino, Luna has been a regular presence in U.S. men’s national team camps. He played an important role in Team USA’s run to the 2025 Gold Cup final, particularly in the Americans’ semifinal win over Guatemala.

Following an eventful debut against Costa Rica - one that saw him break his nose - Luna has become a consistent selection for the USMNT, making 16 appearances while contributing four goals and four assists.

Poch to pick Reyna?

Another major question surrounding Tuesday’s squad announcement involves Borussia Mönchengladbach’s Giovanni Reyna, whose limited playing time in Germany had put his World Cup spot in doubt.

However, The Athletic reports that Reyna will indeed be included in the squad, marking his second World Cup appearance after Qatar 2022.

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