United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino has delivered his first major squad selection as he builds toward the 2026 FIFA World Cup on home soil, naming Bournemouth midfielder Tyler Adams and Fulham defender Antonee Robinson among the 23 players in camp for November friendlies.
Adams, a 25-year-old box-to-box midfielder, returns to the national team after a two-year absence, having missed the 2024 Copa América through injury. Robinson, 32, earns his call-up after a strong Premier League campaign, bolstering a left-back position that has been in flux since Tim Ream’s retirement announcement in August.
Key Selections
- ✅ Tyler Adams — Premier League and international pedigree
- ⚡ Antonee Robinson — Left-back depth and attacking threat
- 💡 First U.S. squad named under Pochettino
The announcement, made Tuesday evening, marks the first public step in Pochettino’s roster construction, with the federation planning a controlled buildup ahead of the tournament co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico. The squad will convene in Los Angeles next week for training before facing Mexico in a high-stakes friendly.
📋 By The Numbers
- 4 — Players aged 25 or younger in the 23-man squad
- 11 — Premier League players called up
Pochettino’s choices reflect a preference for players with top-flight experience, a trend that has defined U.S. selections under recent coaching staffs. Adams, who captained the U.S. at the 2022 World Cup, brings leadership and technical quality, while Robinson adds versatility and set-piece threat from left-back.
💡 Pro Tip
U.S. fans should watch Adams’ fitness in camp—his durability will be critical for a midfield that must cover ground during the 2026 tournament.
Robinson’s inclusion also signals confidence in Fulham’s system under Marco Silva, where he has thrived as an overlapping full-back, a role increasingly vital for modern international teams. His link-up with Christian Pulisic on the left flank could shape the team’s attacking rhythm in friendlies and beyond.
| Position | Player | Club |
|---|---|---|
| Midfielder | Tyler Adams | Bournemouth |
| Defender | Antonee Robinson | Fulham |
The November window serves as a critical audition for fringe players, particularly those vying for spots in the final 23 for the June 2026 opener against Canada. Pochettino has emphasized a “no excuses” approach, demanding fitness and tactical awareness from all call-ups.
- 📊 Adams’ return fills a leadership void in midfield
- 🔍 Robinson’s selection tests depth at left-back
- ⚠️ Injuries could reshape the roster before the new year
The squad gathers at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California, on October 28, with the Mexico friendly scheduled for November 16 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Media access will be restricted for the first two training sessions as Pochettino implements his system.
Key Dates
- ✅ October 28 — Squad arrival in Los Angeles
- ⚡ November 16 — Friendly vs. Mexico
- 💡 December 1 — Potential roster adjustments
Pochettino, who took over in August, has yet to name a captain, a decision that will likely depend on form and leadership in camp. The World Cup squad must be submitted by May 2026, leaving Pochettino roughly six months to finalize his 23-man roster and shape a team capable of advancing past the quarter-finals on home soil.
