Pulisic Makes Triumphant Return as USMNT Faces South Korea After Gold Cup Absence

The United States men's national soccer team takes the field this Saturday as they host South Korea at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey for their opening September international friendly. 

Manager Mauricio Pochettino has assembled a more robust roster for this international break, bringing back multiple Europe-based talents who were unavailable for the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup, where the Americans fell to Mexico in the championship match. 

AC Milan winger Christian Pulisic rejoins the national team setup, alongside prolific Norwich City forward Josh Sargent and AS Monaco striker Folarin Balogun. 

However, what formation will Pochettino deploy against South Korea and their LAFC superstar Son Heung-min?

Below is Sports Illustrated's projected starting eleven. 

USMNT Expected Starting XI vs. South Korea (4-2-3-1)

GK: Matt Freese—Following his standout performances during the Gold Cup campaign, Freese appears positioned to claim the number one spot heading into 2025's conclusion. 

RB: Sergiño Dest—The PSV Eindhoven fullback returns to the American roster after recovering from an injury that sidelined him during the Gold Cup tournament. 

CB: Chris Richards—Coming off his second championship with Crystal Palace, Richards enters the USMNT setup as a consistent presence in central defense. 

CB: Tim Ream—An experienced leader in defense, Ream has been instrumental in Charlotte FC's remarkable eight-game winning run in Major League Soccer. 

LB: Max Arfsten—Though he doesn't typically operate as a fullback for Columbus Crew SC, Arfsten appears to be Pochettino's preferred choice for the USMNT with Antonee Robinson unavailable. 

DM: Tyler Adams—The AFC Bournemouth central midfielder returns to the U.S. roster following his impressive Gold Cup displays. 

DM: Luca de la Torre—A vital component of San Diego FC, De la Torre has contributed to making the Chrome and Azul among MLS's most successful expansion franchises 

RM: Timothy Weah—After his recent transfer to Marseille, Weah aims to provide fresh attacking options from wide positions for the USMNT. 

CM: Diego Luna—An emerging talent from the Gold Cup, Luna has recorded eight goals and two assists for Real Salt Lake this campaign. 

LM: Christian Pulisic—Following his disputed absence from the Gold Cup, Pulisic rejoins the USMNT and should immediately assume a pivotal role. 

ST: Josh Sargent—With five strikes in four appearances, Sargent hopes to transfer his Norwich City form from England's Championship to international competition.