The U.S. men’s national team is set to spring back into action in 2025 with a primarily Major League Soccer (MLS) based roster. Stars such as Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie remain attached to their European clubs until FIFA’s international window reopens in mid-March. However, U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino is set to announce a roster composed of mainly MLS players ahead of the Americans’ annual January camp. This strategy is Pochettino’s first since he was hired in September. The invitees will report to Fort Lauderdale on January 7 in preparation for two friendly matches against Venezuela and Costa Rica in Florida.
The MLS clubs have answered Pochettino’s call in the affirmative, cooperating with the U.S. men’s national team. In a November Zoom conference, he urged the commitment of all MLS clubs for the January friendlies. It is interesting to note that for various reasons, some MLS clubs have shown reluctance in letting their players participate in previous years. However, Pochettino took up the issue well in advance, such as during last month’s MLS Cup in Los Angeles, to ensure cooperation and planning.
The MLS has been supportive of Pochettino in this regard. Most of the regulars in the U.S. men’s national team are currently in the middle of their overseas club seasons, leading Pochettino to rely heavily on players from the domestic league. Some of these players are expected to provide continuity while others will be given opportunities to test themselves and earn a spot in the national team.
Notably, 37-year-old World Cup veteran Tim Ream will possibly continue captain duty, a role he fulfilled in each of Pochettino’s first four games. Others such as FC Cincinnati center back Miles Robinson, Qatar 2022 vet Jesus Ferreira, and forward Brandon Vázquez could also be included. Conversely, the New York City defender/midfielder James Sands will not participate with the national team this month after signing on loan with St. Pauli in Germany’s Bundesliga.
Several other veterans, such as Nashville SC’s Captain Walker Zimmerman, might get their first proof under the new coach. Goalkeeper Brad Guzan, famous for his heroics for Atlanta against Lionel Messi’s Miami in the previous fall’s MLS playoffs, may also be rewarded with a place in the squad. Also, Inter Miami’s keeper Drake Callender could be an option, as he is still looking for his first international cap.
Lastly, the January camp could be an excellent platform for younger prospects to show their abilities and prove that they deserve to play with the big league. Historically, this opportunity has benefited such configurations. Choices for this year include possibilities such as left back John Tolkin and midfielders Josh Atencio, Benjamin Cremaschi, Diego Luna, and Jack McGlynn.
