The final U.S. men’s national team roster of 2025 is again missing several members of what is supposed to be Mauricio Pochettino’s core for the World Cup.
Antonee Robinson remains sidelined, with Pochettino acknowledging he’s worried about the Fulham fullback’s knee issues, while Tyler Adams was ruled out with a possible concussion. Some absences, including Christian Pulisic, Tim Weah and Malik Tillman, were also expected due to recent injuries (after the roster was announced, Pulisic and Tillman returned to the pitch for their clubs over the weekend while Weah was on the bench).
Discussing Pulisic specifically following the roster announcement, Pochettino explained that it was “common sense” to leave him with his club and allow for a full recovery.
But others, like Chris Richards – who went the distance in three straight games for Crystal Palace last week – and most of all, Weston McKennie – who impressed last month after he was omitted for September’s camp – were tougher to digest.
“Chris, Weston, or Yunus [Musah], we already know them. For different reasons, we decide not to call [them up],” Pochettino said, later mentioning that McKennie has a new club manager to impress.
