Pochettino Unveils USMNT Roster: Pulisic Returns, Pepi and Weah Omitted for CONCACAF Clash

November 4, 2026
Pochettino Unveils USMNT Roster: Pulisic Returns, Pepi and Weah Omitted for CONCACAF Clash
  • 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


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