Breaking: Mauricio Pochettino unveiled the U.S. men’s 26-man roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, igniting controversy by picking Gio Reyna over regular starter Diego Luna and notifying players by email. The USMNT, drawn into Group D with Turkey, Paraguay and Australia, must now reconcile selection debates with injury setbacks as it heads into the summer’s decisive build-up.
Pochettino names 26-man USMNT World Cup squad
Mauricio Pochettino confirmed a 26-player roster that mixes established internationals with a handful of surprising choices. The headline is Gio Reyna’s inclusion at the expense of Diego Luna, a decision that dominated reaction and will shape the team’s tactical discussions ahead of the tournament.
Immediate context: Group D and the stakes
The USMNT will open the 2026 World Cup campaign in Group D against Turkey, Paraguay and Australia. Group placement raises expectations for balance and durability across the squad; Pochettino’s selections will be judged by results on a congested schedule against varied styles.
Controversial call: Reyna over Luna
Gio Reyna’s recall — despite an uneven club season — comes despite Diego Luna having been a near-ever-present for the national team in 2025. Luna’s omission is notable not just for his minutes but for his role as a reliable attacking contributor and locker-room presence. Selecting Reyna signals Pochettino favored creative upside and a specific skill set that he believes can alter games, even if it risks removing a proven performer.
Notification method draws criticism
Players learned their World Cup fate via email, a process that prompted criticism for its perceived lack of personal touch. That procedural choice has become part of the narrative around this squad announcement, raising questions about communication standards within the setup ahead of the biggest tournament.
Injury picture and squad fitness
The roster announcement follows key fitness developments. Atletico Madrid’s Johnny Cardoso requires surgery and is unavailable. Derby County’s Patrick Agyemang faces a long-term absence after a torn Achilles. On the positive side, Chris Richards, Christian Pulisic and Brenden Aaronson have recovered from recent minor issues and are cleared to travel.
Full 26-man roster
Goalkeepers Chris Brady (Chicago Fire), Matt Freese (New York City), Matt Turner (New England Revolution)
Defenders Max Arfsten (Columbus Crew), Sergino Dest (PSV), Alex Freeman (Villarreal), Mark McKenzie (Toulouse), Tim Ream (Charlotte FC), Chris Richards (Crystal Palace), Antonee Robinson (Fulham), Miles Robinson (FC Cincinnati), Joe Scally (Borussia Mönchengladbach), Auston Trusty (Celtic)
Midfielders Tyler Adams (AFC Bournemouth), Sebastian Berhalter (Vancouver Whitecaps), Weston McKennie (Juventus), Cristian Roldan (Seattle Sounders)
Attacking midfielders/wingers Brenden Aaronson (Leeds United), Christian Pulisic (Milan), Gio Reyna (Borussia Mönchengladbach), Malik Tillman (Bayer Leverkusen), Tim Weah (Marseille), Alejandro Zendejas (Club América)
Notable omissions and surprises
Aidan Morris and Tanner Tessman were left out, decisions that will invite scrutiny given their strong club seasons. Sebastian Berhalter’s inclusion and Cristian Roldan’s recall underline a preference for MLS-proven reliability in certain midfield roles. The absence of additional central-midfield depth is the most glaring selection risk.
Tactical implications and squad balance
Pochettino’s choices point to a desire for versatility in attack and wide areas, while keeping a compact defensive base. The midfield looks top-heavy on experience at the top end but thin if injuries hit key starters. Expect a setup that leans on Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie for control, with Reyna or Malik Tillman providing moments of creativity off the bench or in rotated roles.
Why this matters
Selection philosophy now faces a dual test: justify bold calls like Reyna over a consistent performer, and prove the squad can absorb injuries without losing competitive edge. The method of communication may be a PR blemish, but on-field results will ultimately validate or condemn these choices.
What’s next
The USMNT will move into final preparations and warm-up matches ahead of the World Cup. Tactical clarity, player fitness and the integration of Reyna into Pochettino’s game plan will determine whether this roster is a cohesive unit or a collection of intriguing but disconnected options.
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