Mauricio Pochettino addresses Balogun absence and Pepi injury

United States Men's National Team coach Mauricio Pochettino has addressed the absence of Folarin Balogun from the upcoming roster. Balogun is currently recovering from a leg injury and was not physically prepared following intense recent transfer market activity. However, Pochettino noted that the player has been training normally since last week and his return is expected soon.

Adding to the squad's selection challenges, Ricardo Pepi's availability for the fall international fixtures is in doubt. Pepi sustained an injury during a match with FC Twente, lasting only eight minutes before being substituted. If Pepi is unable to participate, Pochettino will face difficult decisions regarding his attacking options for the upcoming matches against Peru, Chile, Mexico, and Canada.