Pulisic and Adams lead US 26-man World Cup squad

Christian Pulisic, Tyler Adams, and Weston McKennie will spearhead the United States' campaign at the upcoming World Cup, as head coach Mauricio Pochettino unveiled his 26-player squad. The team aims for a deep run in the tournament, which the Americans are co-hosting with Mexico and Canada.

“

We are confident this is the best group of 26 players to help us achieve success at the World Cup.

The squad presents a balanced mix, with 13 players making their World Cup debut and another 13 having participated in the 2022 tournament in Qatar, where the U.S. reached the knockout stage. This experienced group includes Pulisic, Tim Weah, and Haji Wright, the team's goal scorers from the previous World Cup.

"We are confident this is the best group of 26 players to help us achieve success at the World Cup," Pochettino stated in a release. "These were very difficult decisions, and we are thankful to all the players who were part of this journey. This group is very focused and ready to give everything they have to represent the United States and deliver performances that will make the fans and the country proud."

“

These were very difficult decisions, and we are thankful to all the players who were part of this journey. This group is very focused and ready to give everything they have to represent the United States and deliver performances that will make the fans and the country proud.

Pulisic, currently playing for AC Milan, remains the team's most recognizable star. Adams, the captain in 2022, provides a tenacious midfield presence for Premier League club Bournemouth. AS Monaco striker Folarin Balogun is expected to contend for a leading role in Pochettino's preferred 3-4-2-1 formation.

“

It's a great opportunity for everyone on the roster and also for the fans who maybe don't know a lot about soccer here in America to feel the passion.

Notable inclusions are Gio Reyna, despite limited playing time at Borussia Moenchengladbach, and Alejandro Zendejas, who earned a place after a strong finish to his season with Club America. However, Diego Luna and Tanner Tessmann were among the more significant omissions. This marks the first time the U.S. has hosted soccer's premier event since 1994.

“

I hope that we can make people fall in love with the game here and maybe be able to etch our names in the history books.