Mauricio Pochettino just dropped his USMNT roster for the upcoming September and October friendlies, and holy smokes, it’s a wild one. Christian Pulisic, the guy we all know and love, is out, and in his place is a 16-year-old phenom, Cavan Sullivan! This is a massive shift, with Pochettino making some incredibly intriguing decisions, shaking things up big time.
Teenage Sensation Sullivan Is Here, Pulisic Is Not
Cavan Sullivan is only 16 years old, and he’s the absolute standout pick on this 28-man roster. This kid has been tearing it up for the Philadelphia Union in Major League Soccer, showing flashes of pure magic every time he steps onto the pitch. We’re talking about a serious talent here; Sullivan has already locked down a deal to sign with Manchester City when he turns 18. The hype around this attacking midfielder is insane, and everyone expects him to be the next big thing for American soccer. On the flip side, Christian Pulisic is still getting back to full fitness with AC Milan. He picked up an injury during the USA’s last 16 defeat to Belgium back in July at the World Cup, so his absence makes sense for now. It really highlights Pochettino’s strategy to look at the next generation.
Youth Movement Is Real With Pochettino’s Squad
This roster is absolutely stacked with youngsters. Pochettino is clearly using this window of games to get a closer look at a ton of talented kids who are making names for themselves in MLS and beyond. Besides Sullivan, there’s 18-year-old Julian Hall, who’s been amazing for the New York Red Bulls. Then you’ve got 20-year-old Cole Campbell from Bundesliga side SV Elversberg, and Orlando City teenager Justin Ellis, who’s 19. These guys are rounding out Pochettino’s forward options alongside Ricardo Pepi. And it’s not just up front; youngsters like Peyton Miller, Neil Pierre, and Frankie Westfield are getting called up on defense and in midfield. The Philadelphia Union, man, they’re showing out with an impressive three players aged 20 or younger in this squad. While 13 players from the 2026 World Cup are in this group, a whopping 12 uncapped players have been named, too. This is a real look into the future.
This USMNT squad is set to face Peru and Chile in September, then Mexico and Canada in October. With so many fresh faces and a 16-year-old sensation making the cut, every game will be a test and an opportunity. We’re gonna find out fast who’s ready to step up and make a name for themselves on the international stage.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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