USMNT begins 2030 World Cup preparation cycle

The U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) has officially begun its preparation cycle for the 2030 FIFA World Cup under manager Mauricio Pochettino. The squad is currently participating in a series of friendly matches against Peru, Chile, Mexico, and Canada.

Pochettino’s strategy emphasizes drastic youth development, featuring a roster that includes 13 uncapped players, eight of whom are teenagers. This shift has repositioned players like Gio Reyna and Sebastian Berhalter into veteran roles within the squad. Reyna, 23, and Berhalter, 25, are now among the older members of the 28-man fall roster.

Returning leader Tyler Adams noted that the focus on young prospects is essential for long-term preparation. Adams highlighted that the current group of newcomers has earned their opportunities through high-level performance, providing them more time to develop before the start of World Cup qualifying.