Pochettino Reverses Shocking USMNT Snub as Star Player Pulls Out with Injury

Prior to any potential debate about Folarin Balogun being left out of Mauricio Pochettino's most recent U.S. men's national team (USMNT) squad, the Monaco striker received a late call-up.

Balogun secured his opportunity to take on South Korea and Japan in upcoming friendlies following Vancouver Whitecaps striker Brian White's withdrawal due to injury. The 29-year-old suffered a hamstring problem during last weekend's win against St. Louis, leaving a vacancy in the squad that many anticipated would go to Balogun.

The former Arsenal forward's 2024–25 season was largely disrupted by injuries, as he spent approximately six months on the sidelines with a shoulder dislocation and the subsequent surgical procedure needed to repair it. Upon returning to action in the spring, Balogun was originally named in this summer's Gold Cup squad before an ankle problem forced his withdrawal.

Balogun's latest international outing occurred in September 2024, prior to Pochettino taking charge. His most recent international victory and goal came in the 2024 Copa América opener versus Bolivia.

The 24-year-old was previously viewed as the USMNT's primary striker option and will now battle for a starting position in September alongside Southampton's Damion Downs and Norwich City forward Josh Sargent.

Pochettino's original selection of Vancouver's White ahead of Balogun might have reflected his high regard for MLS. While North America's premier soccer league is generally viewed as less competitive than Europe's top divisions, the Argentine manager presented a passionate defense during his squad announcement.

"We must recognize MLS's worth, because I believe competing there allows players to demonstrate their capability at international level," Pochettino explained to reporters this week. "I don't think it's essential to transfer from MLS to Europe. Sometimes MLS, in my evaluation, could be more competitive than certain European leagues."