The recent international break proved to be a disappointing one for the United States men`s national team, marked by defeats against Panama and Canada and a meager single goal scored. As the World Cup draws nearer, concerns are mounting for coach Mauricio Pochettino and the USMNT, primarily focusing on the team`s depth.
The absence of players like Folarin Balogun, Sergino Dest, and Antonee Robinson certainly had an impact. Historically, the USMNT often enters major tournaments with injuries to key players, highlighting the critical need for reliable backup options within the squad. The situation is further complicated by talented players such as Gio Reyna facing limited playing time with their clubs, consequently diminishing overall team depth.
Despite the setbacks, there were glimpses of promise from certain players during this camp. However, the overall concern regarding the team`s potential ceiling is valid, especially with dwindling opportunities for competitive matches. Upcoming friendlies against Türkiye and Switzerland in June, preceding the Gold Cup, offer a chance for improvement. Nevertheless, Pochettino might still face roster limitations due to the Club World Cup involving Juventus and Borussia Dortmund.
Stock Up: Diego Luna
Amidst Gio Reyna`s limited playtime, Diego Luna demonstrated his ability to inject dynamism into the midfield and his willingness to take initiative in a central role. While a match against Panama would have been a valuable test, Luna capitalized on his opportunities against Canada, providing an assist and showcasing inventive passes that some of his midfield counterparts might not attempt. In the absence of established wing-backs, Luna effectively provided much-needed creativity. While there is still room for development and competition for midfield spots is fierce, Luna has presented a strong case for inclusion in the Gold Cup roster, provided he remains fit.
Stock Down: Weston McKennie
Deployed as a number 10 against Panama and subsequently in a deeper midfield role versus Canada, this international window was challenging for McKennie. His defensive contributions were adequate, but his impact with the ball was insufficient. Opposing teams presented a more compact midfield against the USMNT than McKennie typically encounters, reflecting a broader issue for the team when not performing optimally. For the USMNT to succeed under difficult circumstances, numerous factors must align favorably. McKennie`s fluctuating role depending on tactical needs means his subpar performances often coincide with the team`s overall struggles. While there is no immediate solution, the limited midfield depth amplifies this concern.
Stock Up: Chris Richards and Tim Ream in Defense
Currently, Richards and Ream appear to be the preferred central defensive partnership for the USMNT. While this provides stability, the fact that it involves a 37-year-old center back and a player prone to injury raises depth questions. Ideally, a full-strength USMNT defense would consist of Antonee Robinson, Tim Ream, Chris Richards, and Sergino Dest in front of Matt Turner. Joe Scally has performed well as a substitute, but lacks attacking impetus. Ream`s composure and organization are noticeably absent when he`s off the field, and while Richards can make errors, his speed allows him to recover, and he demonstrates resilience in maintaining focus throughout games. This situation again underscores the depth limitations facing Pochettino as the World Cup approaches, forcing him to rely on his most experienced players like Richards and Ream.
Stock Down: Christian Pulisic
The team`s success is heavily dependent on Christian Pulisic`s contributions, and during the Nations League, his impact was limited. This international break was among Pulisic`s least effective in a USMNT jersey. While he is expected to rebound, as the national team`s star player, consistent high-level performance is crucial for victories. Pulisic faces immense pressure, and unless other players emerge to become match-winners during his off days, this pressure will remain, or even intensify as the World Cup approaches.
Stock Up: Patrick Agyemang
When Patrick Agyemang has possession, he evokes a sense of power reminiscent of a prime Jozy Altidore, suggesting a forward capable of overcoming any obstacle to score. With three goals in four appearances for the USMNT, Agyemang is solidifying his place in the competitive forward pool. His goal against Canada, though not perfectly executed, exemplifies how consistent shots from favorable positions often lead to goals. With Ricardo Pepi already offering pace from the bench, Agyemang provides a different, physically imposing option for the USMNT attack, capable of challenging defenses late in games.
