Pochettino Unveils USMNT Roster: Pulisic Returns, Pepi and Weah Omitted for CONCACAF Clash
November 4, 2026
The coach emphasizes bringing the group together and pursuing victory and progression in the Nations League.
Mauricio Pochettino named a 25-man USMNT squad for the CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinals against Haiti, recalling Christian Pulisic, Folarin Balogun and Weston McKennie while adding two potential debutants, Reed Baker-Whiting and Santiago Castañeda.
Teenage MLS talents Cavan Sullivan and Julian Hall are included, highlighting a youth-driven approach.
Eight players earning first caps in the September/October camp are returning, underscoring continuity within a growing pool.
Ricardo Pepi is omitted to continue training with PSV Eindhoven and rebuild fitness after injuries, as Pochettino manages his conditioning before rejoining the squad.
Pepi’s absence is framed as a deliberate fitness and development decision, with a plan to reintroduce him when ready.
Aidan Morris is not selected despite strong domestic form, reflecting depth in midfield options.
No additional contextual details about dates, venues, or selection rationale are provided in the excerpt.
Pochettino stresses building from the recent successful window and the objective to win and advance, linking camp performance to tournament goals.
The selection reinforces MLS-to-pro and national-team pathways, highlighting the academy-to-pro pipeline as a strength of US soccer development.
George Campbell’s potential injury replacement is on the table, with contingency plans for travel if needed.
Pochettino notes that breadth in the squad will create competition for minutes and strategic depth going forward.
Summary based on 40 sources
Get a daily email with more US News stories
Sources

The Guardian • Nov 4, 2026
Christian Pulisic, Folarin Balogun return to USMNT roster for Nations League
New York Post • Nov 4, 2026
Christian Pulisic, Folarin Balogun return to changing USMNT
CBS Sports • Nov 4, 2026
Mauricio Pochettino mixes veterans, youth on USMNT roster for Nations League matches