U.S. men’s national team released a 26‑man World Cup roster Tuesday, retaining 13 players from 2022. Veterans Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie and Tyler Adams anchor the squad, while the remaining spots follow a predictable pattern. The biggest surprise is Lyon midfielder Tanner Tessmann, sidelined by a May muscle strain, a decision echoing Mauricio Pochettino’s habit of dropping any player with fitness concerns.

Coach Mauricio Pochettino opted against a direct midfield replacement, leaving out Middlesbrough’s Aidan Morris despite his 92% pass rate. Instead he added versatile Borussia Mönchengladbach defender Joe Scally, who already featured at the 2022 World Cup. With five other centre‑backs available, Scally’s inclusion feels redundant, leaving the midfield thin and vulnerable to suspensions. Morris’s absence strips the side of a reliable ball‑winner.

The attacking line remains deep, with Form‑in‑the‑spot forwards Folarin Balogun, Haji Wright and Ricardo Pepi all in good scoring rhythm. Yet creativity hinges on a struggling Christian Pulisic and a midfield that must supply chances for McKennie, Reyna and Zendejas. If Chris Richards cannot recover from his ankle, the back‑line’s stability will crumble, compromising any deep run.