USMNT: Pochettino's Squad Revamp: 14 Players Who Could Earn Call-Ups
- September 26, 2024 01:03am
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With a new coach at the helm, the U.S. men's national team is poised for a shake-up. Here are 14 players who could force their way into Mauricio Pochettino's plans.
The arrival of Mauricio Pochettino as the new U.S. men's national team head coach has sparked speculation about potential changes to the team's roster. While Pochettino is somewhat limited by the players available to him, he does have the authority to reshape the squad by selectively calling up players who fit his tactical vision.
Unlike at club level, Pochettino can simply decide not to summon a player who isn't getting regular minutes, is out of shape or form, or doesn't fit his hard-running system. This flexibility opens up opportunities for players who may not have been regular starters under former coach Gregg Berhalter.
USMNT: Pochettino's Squad Revamp: 14 Players Who Could Earn Call-Ups
Here are 14 players who weren't (or weren't often) part of Berhalter's lineups or squads during the 2026 World Cup cycle, but who are now playing regularly and could warrant a fresh look from Pochettino:
1. **Reggie Cannon, 26, Colorado Rapids (MLS)**: The right back was a mainstay under Berhalter but was omitted from the World Cup roster. He could return to the fold under Pochettino, who knows him from his time in MLS.
USMNT: Pochettino's Squad Revamp: 14 Players Who Could Earn Call-Ups
2. **Maximilian Dietz, 22, Greuther Fürth (Germany)**: A member of the 2024 U.S. Olympic team, Dietz projects as a center back at the senior level. He has played regularly for Fürth this season.
3. **Marlon Fossey, 26, Standard Liège (Belgium)**: The right back impressed in his USMNT debut against New Zealand. He is likely to compete for the starting job until Sergiño Dest returns from injury.
USMNT: Pochettino's Squad Revamp: 14 Players Who Could Earn Call-Ups
4. **Julian Green, 29, Greuther Fürth (Germany)**: The 2014 World Cup goalscorer has rediscovered his form this season. He could be a candidate to earn a call-up as a central midfielder.
5. **Luca Koleosho, 20, Burnley (England)**: The left winger is eligible to represent several countries, including the U.S. Pochettino is likely to try to convince him to commit to the USMNT.
6. **Richie Ledezma, 24, PSV Eindhoven (Netherlands)**: The converted central midfielder has established himself as a regular for the Dutch champions. He could earn his first USMNT cap since 2021.
7. **Diego Luna, 21, Real Salt Lake (MLS)**: The playmaker has had an exceptional season with RSL. He could warrant a look alongside the team's Europe-based regulars.
8. **Lenny Maloney, 24, Heidenheim (Germany)**: The hard-running midfielder is a good fit for Pochettino's system. He has started all of Heidenheim's matches this season.
9. **Mark McKenzie, 25, Toulouse (France)**: The center back has moved to Ligue 1, a league Pochettino is familiar with. He could grab a spot in the squad now that other center backs are struggling.
10. **Aidan Morris, 22, Middlesbrough (England)**: The midfielder has been a revelation at 'Boro. He could be a key player for Pochettino, especially with Tyler Adams still sidelined.
11. **Kevin Paredes, 21, Wolfsburg (Germany)**: The left back/left winger is set to make his return from injury soon. He could provide depth in the squad.
12. **Zack Steffen, 29, Colorado Rapids (MLS)**: The former U.S. starter could get another chance to compete for the No. 1 role. He is backed by a new coaching staff.
13. **John Tolkin, 22, New York Red Bulls (MLS)**: The left back is known for his endurance and technical ability. He could challenge Kris Kristoffer Lund for the backup role.
14. **Brandon Vazquez, Monterrey (Mexico)**: The target striker has continued his prolific scoring form in Mexico. He has earned a call-up from Pochettino's predecessor but could solidify his place in the squad.
It remains to be seen if Pochettino will make significant changes to the USMNT roster. However, these 14 players have put themselves in contention for call-ups by performing well at club level. Their inclusion could breathe new life into the team as it prepares for the 2026 World Cup.
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