USMNT fans will gain insight into head coach Mauricio Pochettino’s squad vision for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, less than a year away, as the team gathers for friendlies against South Korea and Japan in early September. Pochettino included several fringe players during the summer’s Gold Cup, reaching the final before losing to Mexico. While some expect familiar names to return, Pochettino has shown loyalty to the largely domestic-based group.
Christian Pulisic rejoins the squad after opting to rest over the summer, a move that sparked controversy among fans and media. Players like Tim Weah and Weston McKennie, who were tied up with the Club World Cup, are also expected back, though other European-based veterans may remain sidelined. With competitive fixtures before the home World Cup now complete, these friendlies mark the start of serious preparations.
USMNT Roster for September Friendlies vs. South Korea, Japan
Pochettino has selected 23 players for the September international break matches against South Korea and Japan. During his roster announcement press conference on August 26, he suggested this would be the last chance to test new players before the 2026 World Cup, noting that those starting preseason late or joining new clubs were given a break to build fitness. Initially, 22 players were called up, but Folarin Balogun was later added as the 23rd.
| Pos | Name | Club | Caps |
|---|---|---|---|
| GK | Roman Celentano | FC Cincinnati (USA) | 0 |
| GK | Matt Freese | NYCFC (USA) | 7 |
| GK | Jonathan Klinsmann | Cesena (ITA) | 0 |
| DEF | Max Arfsten | Columbus Crew (USA) | 10 |
| DEF | Tristan Blackmon | Vancouver Whitecaps (CAN) | 0 |
| DEF | Noahkai Banks | Augsburg (GER) | 0 |
| DEF | Sergino Dest | PSV (NED) | 33 |
| DEF | Alex Freeman | Orlando City (USA) | 7 |
| DEF | Nathan Harriel | Philadelphia Union (USA) | 1 |
| DEF | Tim Ream | Charlotte FC (USA) | 75 |
| DEF | Chris Richards | Crystal Palace (ENG) | 31 |
| MID | Tyler Adams | Bournemouth (ENG) | 50 |
| MID | Sebastian Berhalter | Vancouver Whitecaps (CAN) | 6 |
| MID | Luca de la Torre | San Diego FC (USA) | 31 |
| MID | Jack McGlynn | Houston Dynamo (USA) | 11 |
| MID | Sean Zawadzki | Columbus Crew (USA) | 1 |
| FWD | Folarin Balogun | AS Monaco (FRA) | 17 |
| FWD | Damion Downs | Southampton (ENG) | 5 |
| FWD | Diego Luna | Real Salt Lake (USA) | 12 |
| FWD | Christian Pulisic | AC Milan (ITA) | 78 |
| FWD | Josh Sargent | Norwich City (ENG) | 28 |
| FWD | Timothy Weah | Marseille (FRA) | 44 |
| FWD | Alex Zendejas | Club America (MEX) | 11 |
Christian Pulisic Returns
Pulisic’s decision to skip the Gold Cup for rest stirred debate, given its role as the last competitive tune-up before the 2026 World Cup. His absence impacted the team, drawing criticism from former players. Pochettino has moved past the issue, stating, “It’s behind us. We have a plan for every player.” Supported by teammates and coaches, Pulisic’s return is unlikely to cause internal friction.
European-Based Players Still Sidelined
Several European-based players, including Weston McKennie and Yunus Musah, were omitted from the Gold Cup, a statement from Pochettino about their attitudes despite their status at big Italian clubs. Others like Cameron Carter-Vickers, Tanner Tessmann, Joe Scally, Gio Reyna, and Josh Sargent were also excluded for “football reasons,” with Sargent now back after a strong start at Norwich. Injured players like Antonee Robinson and Patrick Agyemang remain out, while Balogun and Dest return from injury.
Tristan Blackmon and Noahkai Banks Called Up
Tristan Blackmon, a Vancouver Whitecaps center-back, was unexpectedly revealed as a USMNT call-up by teammate Thomas Muller, despite earlier talks with Canada. Born in Las Vegas, Blackmon could challenge for a World Cup spot. Noahkai Banks, an 18-year-old Augsburg defender born in Hawaii, earns his first call-up after progressing through U.S. youth ranks, though he has limited Bundesliga experience.
Thomas Muller accidentally announcing that Tristan Blackmon is getting called up to the USMNT 😭 pic.twitter.com/pzHXl3qU4P
— USMNT Only (@usmntonly) August 24, 2025
How to Watch
USA vs. South Korea (Sept. 6, 5 p.m. ET, Harrison, NJ):
- TV (English): TNT
- Streaming (English): Max, Sling
- TV (Spanish): Universo, Telemundo
- Streaming (Spanish): Fubo, Peacock, Universo NOW, Telemundo Deportes en Vivo
USA vs. Japan (Sept. 9, 7:30 p.m. ET, Columbus, OH):
