The search is basically over. After looking at around 70 players over the past 16 months, US coach Mauricio Pochettino says he's done evaluating new candidates for his World Cup squad. Now it's all about keeping players healthy and in good form.
"It's true that now we are close to the World Cup," Pochettino told reporters Thursday. "It's going to be difficult to bring some new players, because I think we don't have time. We have a very good idea. Now it's about our players will be fit and in very good form."
The coach will get one last look at his squad together in late March. The USMNT faces Belgium and Portugal in Atlanta for two massive friendlies. Those matches will give us a strong hint about who's making the final 26-man roster.
Injury Concerns Could Shake Things Up
Most of Pochettino's regulars are healthy right now. But there are some worrying situations brewing. Bournemouth midfielder Tyler Adams is dealing with a knee problem and racing to be fit for March.
Even if Adams misses the March camp, he's likely still going to the World Cup. His experience and leadership make him too valuable to leave behind, assuming he recovers in time for the summer tournament.
Striker Ricardo Pepi is another player to watch. He broke his forearm while having an amazing run with PSV Eindhoven. Pepi is competing with several other strikers for probably just three World Cup spots, so every match matters for him now.
"We'll see how he's going to come back and start to play and to perform," Pochettino said about Pepi. "Of course, he's a player that is our radar."
Building Momentum After Strong Finish
The Americans ended 2025 on fire. They beat four World Cup teams (Japan, Australia, Paraguay, and Uruguay) and tied Ecuador. The Uruguay game was the best yet under Pochettino—a dominant 5-1 victory in Tampa.
The four-month break until March came at a terrible time. "How we finished 2025, you want to play the next week again," Pochettino admitted. The team had momentum, confidence, and chemistry, but now they have to rebuild that energy.
During this break, Pochettino has been watching his European-based players closely. His MLS guys are just getting back into shape during preseason. But the coach isn't worried about their match fitness yet. "Maybe without games, you compensate with energy," he explained.
One interesting development: Orlando City right back Alex Freeman is reportedly joining Villarreal in Spain soon. Moving to a new league this close to the World Cup is risky. If Freeman doesn't get playing time, he could lose his spot on the roster. But Pochettino supports the move and says Freeman called him for advice first.
For bettors looking at the USMNT's World Cup chances, these next few months are crucial. The March friendlies against Belgium and Portugal will show whether the team can maintain that late-2025 form. Player fitness and club performance between now and May could significantly shift the odds on America's tournament prospects.
