Pochettino Unleashes Star-Studded USMNT Squad as Key Players Return for October Friendlies
Mauricio Pochettino had the opportunity to bring back players such as Antonee Robinson and Weston McKennie when announcing his 26-player U.S. men's national team (USMNT) squad for October's international matches against Ecuador and Australia.
Robinson has experienced a disrupted period in recent months. The energetic Fulham left-back had positioned himself among the Premier League's top performers in his role, generating transfer rumors linking him to Liverpool, while recording 10 assists—the highest tally for any defender in Europe's major five leagues.
Nevertheless, the 28-year-old was compelled to have knee surgery during the summer break, sidelining him from Gold Cup participation. Robinson had been excluded from USMNT's last two training camps but is now anticipated to return to international duty for the first time since November 2024.
McKennie has been absent from national team duty since March 2025. Juventus's participation in the Club World Cup prevented his Gold Cup availability, and Pochettino left him out of September's international fixtures.
An exceptionally in-form Christian Pulisic naturally leads the squad—his summer disagreement with Pochettino now water under the bridge (at least until his scoring streak ends)—while Patrick Agyemang is back in contention for the first time since his impressive showing at this summer's continental competition.
Reason Behind Tyler Adams' Absence from USMNT's October Squad
The most significant exclusion from Pochettino's roster was Tyler Adams. The Bournemouth midfielder has been a consistent presence in the national setup when healthy and available, most memorably leading his nation as captain during the 2022 World Cup.
Adams, who has featured in all six of Bournemouth's Premier League matches this campaign, hasn't been sidelined due to injury but is instead supporting his wife, who is due to deliver their child imminently, according to The Athletic's Paul Tenorio.
Complete USMNT Squad for Matches Against Ecuador, Australia
