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As the new year begins, excitement builds for soccer fans across the United States as the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) gears up for two highly anticipated friendlies. Under the guidance of head coach Mauricio Pochettino, the USMNT has confirmed a roster filled with talent and promise for matches against Venezuela and Costa Rica this January. But what can fans expect from this squad in the buildup to the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
The upcoming games are set to take place in Florida, with the first match occurring on January 18 against Venezuela at Chase Stadium in Ft. Lauderdale, followed by a clash against Costa Rica on January 22 at Inter&Co Stadium in Orlando. As part of the annual January camp tradition, this roster predominantly features players from Major League Soccer (MLS), given that many international players are engaged with their European clubs. With 23 out of the 24 players being MLS representatives, it reflects the league's growing significance in the national team's strategy.
Pochettino’s first camp as head coach presents a vital opportunity to evaluate talent and build depth. The roster features a mix of seasoned World Cup veterans and fresh faces. Among the experienced players are notable figures who previously represented the USMNT at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, including Tim Ream, who has been instrumental since Pochettino's appointment.
Here's a detailed look at the USMNT's roster:
GOALKEEPERS
- Drake Callender - Inter Miami CF
- Matt Freese - New York City FC
- Patrick Schulte - Columbus Crew
- Zack Steffen - Colorado Rapids
DEFENDERS
- Max Arfsten - Columbus Crew
- George Campbell - CF Montréal
- DeJuan Jones - Columbus Crew
- Shaq Moore - FC Dallas
- Jalen Neal - CF Montréal
- Tim Ream - Charlotte FC
- Miles Robinson - FC Cincinnati
- John Tolkin - New York Red Bulls
- Walker Zimmerman - Nashville SC
MIDFIELDERS
- Benjamin Cremaschi - Inter Miami CF
- Emeka Eneli - Real Salt Lake
- Diego Luna - Real Salt Lake
- Jack McGlynn - Philadelphia Union
FORWARDS
- Patrick Agyemang - Charlotte FC
- Caden Clark - CF Montréal
- Jesús Ferreira - FC Dallas
- Brian Gutiérrez - Chicago Fire FC
- Matko Miljevic - Unattached
- Indiana Vassilev - St. Louis CITY SC
- Brian White - Vancouver Whitecaps FC
This roster not only includes seasoned players adept in international play but also showcases seven players receiving their first call-up to the USMNT. This blend of youth and experience is critical as the team approaches significant tournaments like the Concacaf Nations League Finals in March and the Concacaf Gold Cup later in the year.
Historically, the January camp has been a platform for players to demonstrate their skills and earn their place in the national team. Pochettino's vision emphasizes the importance of nurturing talent from the MLS, showcasing players who have excelled in domestic competitions. The focus on player development comes as the USMNT prepares for its role in co-hosting the prestigious 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The USMNT's ongoing matches against tough opponents like Venezuela and Costa Rica will be a telling sign of how the team's preparations are progressing. With a solid history against Venezuela, holding a 3-1-2 record, and a more challenging series against Costa Rica, where they lead 19-17-6, the upcoming friendlies are pivotal for testing the squad's capabilities and establishing a winning mentality.
As the January friendlies approach, soccer enthusiasts are eager to see how Pochettino’s new-look squad performs on the field. Expectations are high, and it promises to be an exciting month for the USMNT and their supporters!
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