Star Players Absent from USA Men's National Team Roster
Mauricio Pochettino left out Christian Pulisic and Folarin Balogun as part of preparations for the new era while including 16-year-old Cavan Sullivan.
USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino has announced his 28-man preliminary roster for the upcoming international window. While major stars such as Christian Pulisic and Folarin Balogun were left off the squad, 16-year-old Cavan Sullivan along with 13 new players received their first-ever call-ups.
Notable Omissions from the Roster
The 28-man preliminary squad announced by United States Men's National Team head coach Mauricio Pochettino drew attention for the absence of several key stars.
Leading figures of the team such as AC Milan's Christian Pulisic and AS Monaco's Folarin Balogun were not included in the squad for the initial friendly matches of the new era.
Pulisic and Injury Status
Christian Pulisic suffered a lower leg injury during the World Cup match against Belgium and went through a long treatment and recovery process.
Since the experienced forward has only managed to play as a substitute in two matches for his club AC Milan in the new season, the coaching staff chose not to risk him.
Cavan Sullivan Named to the Squad
Philadelphia Union's 16-year-old rising talent Cavan Sullivan has been called up to the senior national team for the first time following his successful performances.
Recording nine goals and fifteen assists across all competitions this season, the young player stands out among the young names trusted most by head coach Mauricio Pochettino.
New Era and Rejuvenation Goal
Head coach Mauricio Pochettino stated that they aim to make a completely fresh start for the upcoming four-year World Cup cycle.
The inclusion of a total of 13 new players who have never worn the national jersey before in the 28-man roster stood out as part of this strategy.
Other Injuries and Situations
Juventus player Weston McKennie and Diego Luna from Real Salt Lake were other names unable to make the squad during this match window due to injuries.
AS Monaco's Folarin Balogun was among the players left out of the squad because he recently returned to training following a minor injury.
Upcoming Match Schedule
The US Men's National Team will face opponents such as Peru, Chile, Mexico, and Canada during the September and October international match windows.
The players are scheduled to gather in Atlanta on September 20 to begin preparations and take the field for the new cycle matches.