Manager Releases Preliminary Gold Cup Roster for Final Test Before World Cup
USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino unveiled his 60-player preliminary roster for this summer's CONCACAF Gold Cup, marking the team's final competitive tournament before co-hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The extensive list features both established stars and intriguing newcomers as Pochettino looks to reshape the squad following disappointing performances in the Nations League.
Christian Pulisic headlines the roster after enjoying a career-best season with AC Milan, scoring 17 goals with one game remaining. The star winger hasn't featured in a Gold Cup since 2019, signaling Pochettino's intent to field a strong team in this crucial preparatory tournament. Pulisic is joined by fellow European-based talents including Tyler Adams, Antonee Robinson, Yunus Musah, and FA Cup winner Chris Richards.
Several regular starters are unavailable due to the concurrent FIFA Club World Cup, with Juventus teammates Weston McKennie and Tim Weah, plus Borussia Dortmund's Gio Reyna, all absent as their clubs have priority for the expanded competition. Ricardo Pepi will also miss out as he continues rehabilitation from his serious knee injury.
Pochettino's roster includes several intriguing newcomers and returning faces. Sebastian Berhalter, son of former USMNT coach Gregg Berhalter, earned his spot after an outstanding season with the Vancouver Whitecaps. Richy Ledezma returns to the fold despite previously not making the Nations League roster and remains eligible to represent Mexico. Another notable inclusion is German-American forward Damion Downs.
In goal, veterans Matt Turner and Zack Steffen are joined by uncapped prospects Chris Brady, Matthew Freese, and Barcelona youngster Diego Kochen, suggesting potential competition for the starting position.
The final 26-man roster must be submitted to CONCACAF by June 4. The Americans will prepare with friendlies against Türkiye and Switzerland in early June before beginning their Gold Cup campaign against Trinidad and Tobago on June 15 in San Jose, California. The tournament represents Pochettino's best opportunity to implement changes before the World Cup and pursue his first trophy with the national team since taking charge.
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