Mauricio Pochettino has unveiled a youthful 28-player roster as he embarks on rebuilding the USMNT ahead of the next World Cup cycle. This fresh lineup will compete in four friendly matches within an intense 11-day period, a consequence of FIFA’s revamped international window format.
All fixtures will be hosted on American soil, with the team travelling across the country to engage fans in Florida, Missouri, Arizona, and Minnesota. This series of matches marks an early step in Pochettino’s efforts to refresh the squad and lay groundwork for future competitions.
USMNT’s September and October 2026 Schedule
The upcoming fixtures for the international break are as follows:
- September 26, 4:30 p.m. ET: USMNT vs. Peru at Inter&Co Stadium, Orlando, Florida
- September 29, 8:00 p.m. ET: USMNT vs. Chile at Energizer Park, St. Louis, Missouri
- October 3, 9:00 p.m. ET: USMNT vs. Mexico at State Farm Stadium, Glendale, Arizona
- October 6, 8:00 p.m. ET: USMNT vs. Canada at Allianz Field, St. Paul, Minnesota
Pochettino’s Youth-Centric Approach
In the wake of the 2026 World Cup, Mauricio Pochettino is embracing an experimental strategy as he shapes the USMNT’s future. His vision extends beyond the immediate friendlies, targeting the Olympic Games and Copa América in 2028, the Gold Cup in 2029, and the 2030 World Cup as key milestones.
Notably, out of the 28 players selected, 12 are uncapped at the senior international level, including the group’s standout, Cavan Sullivan. This infusion of fresh talent reflects Pochettino’s commitment to integrating new prospects and building a squad with long-term potential.