Mauricio Pochettino's USMNT squad for the March window signals a potential shift in his approach to player selection ahead of the World Cup. While emphasizing peak club performance has been a hallmark, the inclusion of Gio Reyna despite his poor club form at Borussia Mönchengladbach – where he's played only 26 minutes this season – suggests Pochettino is prioritizing other factors. The manager highlighted the importance of a player's ability to contribute to the national team dynamic, stating he doesn't follow strict rules and seeks players who can "help to perform" regardless of recent club output.

This flexibility appears crucial given the significant injury toll affecting the squad, including key players like Sergiño Dest and Tyler Adams, who are sidelined just weeks before World Cup roster cuts. Pochettino acknowledged the challenge of assessing players recovering from injuries, stating it's a "great opportunity" but difficult to evaluate. The next two weeks will be vital for players like Reyna to prove their worth and secure a World Cup spot.