⚽ USMNT's WC roster has Pochettino taking risks
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- Mauricio Pochettino announced a 26‑player USMNT World Cup roster, 13 of whom appeared in the 2022 tournament, including Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, and Tyler Adams.
- Tanner Tessmann was left off the squad despite a month‑long muscle strain that kept him out in May, a move described as a “big surprise” by sources.
- Joe Scally was added as an extra defender, even though the team already has five center backs and other wing‑back options such as Timothy Weah and Sergiño Dest.
- Aidan Morris was selected as a midfielder, noted for a 92% pass‑completion rate with Middlesbrough, though his tendency to jump into passing lanes can leave the defense exposed.
- Tyler Adams is a starter but has a history of injuries, and yellow‑card accumulations are a lingering concern for the midfield.
Why it matters: U.S. soccer fans and sponsors gain clarity on the squad, while Tessmann loses his World Cup chance; the thin midfield hampers the team's tactical flexibility, affecting match outcomes and viewership revenue.
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