UnpressAI

27 Aug 2025, 15:07

The USMNT is starting to form a new team based on MLS

  • Attention is being drawn to players from MLS for the national team.
  • Players like Pulishich and Dest are demonstrating strong results in Europe.
  • Cardoso and Vea will receive new opportunities in their clubs.

Head coach of the US national team, Mavriky Pochettino, is discussing changes in the squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Among the new faces are players from Major League Soccer (MLS), which has sparked discussions about the league's role in forming the national team.

Since his appointment, Pochettino has been faced with challenges, particularly with the absence of key players, such as Weston McKennie and Yunus Musah. This has drawn attention to MLS, where many players have the opportunity to contribute to the Gold Cup final.

Pochettino believes that MLS can be a competitive league and does not consider it necessary for players to feel obliged to transition to European clubs for development. "Players can demonstrate their abilities in the national team while playing in MLS," Pochettino noted.

On this note, several players who have remained in Europe are also demonstrating strong results. For example, Sergiño Dest at PSV shows outstanding form, and Christian Pulisic at "Milan" has the potential to become a key player. Meanwhile, Josh Sargent at "Norwich" has already scored three goals in three matches.

Transfers of players, such as Johnny Cardoso to "Atletico Madrid" and Tim Vea to "Marseille," are also generating interest. Cardoso may have an impact on the national team, while Vea has the chance to showcase himself in Ligue 1, where he is known for his playing style.

While MLS continues to develop, Pochettino seems ready to utilize its opportunities for forming a competitive national team squad.

Tags: USA/Sport/Football

Articles on this topic:

  • www.theguardian.com - Farewell McKennie and Weah in chaos: Predictions for USMNT players abroad this season
  • www.nytimes.com - What Pochettino’s praise for MLS means for USMNT’s makeup