Gregg Berhalter’s 2024 firing replaced him with Mauricio Pochettino, who called up son Sebastian to the Gold Cup squad. Sebastian, once a backup at Vancouver, surged to a key midfielder after a slow rise, scoring his first MLS goal in 2023 and cementing a place in the 2025 All‑Star team.

The trade that sent Sebastian from the Columbus Crew to the Vancouver Whitecaps for $50,000 in guaranteed cash marked a low point. Over the next two seasons he added 35 and 40 appearances, then exploded in 2025 with a run to the MLS Cup final and a Concacaf Champions Cup berth. Pochettino praised his work ethic, calling him a “monster” on the pitch.

Sebastian’s World Cup call‑up feels inevitable now that his father watches from the sidelines. The move highlights how coaching changes can reset a player’s trajectory and how familial ties can shape national team dynamics. His inclusion signals a fresh chapter for the U.S. squad as it heads to Qatar.