Midfielder Tanner Tessmann has reportedly been omitted from the United States men's national team's final roster for the upcoming 2026 World Cup. This exclusion comes as a surprise to many, as Tessmann was widely considered a strong candidate for a starting position, having been a consistent presence in six training camps under coach Mauricio Pochettino. The final squad selection also sees the absence of Diego Luna, who, like Tessmann, has been recovering from a muscle injury, while controversial choices like Gio Reyna and returning players such as Alejandro Zendejas, Cristian Roldan, Miles Robinson, Chris Richards, and Ricardo Pepi made the cut.
Despite a recent muscle strain that sidelined him on May 8th, Tessmann's club performance for Lyon was robust, featuring as a starter in five Europa League matches and 22 Ligue 1 games this season. The Athletic had reported that this injury was not expected to hinder his World Cup participation. His exclusion signals a significant decision by Pochettino, particularly given Tessmann's prior involvement and strong form.
Another notable player not making the team is Diego Luna. Although he contributed four goals and four assists in 18 appearances for the USMNT since his 2024 debut under Pochettino, Luna has also been grappling with a muscle injury. His reputation for resilience, demonstrated by playing through a broken nose in a friendly match, wasn't enough to secure his spot.
Conversely, Alejandro Zendejas, a winger from Club América, earned a place on the roster. Zendejas, despite not having been with the national team since October, was part of four Pochettino squads in 2024 and 2025, showcasing an impressive record of 12 goals and 7 assists in 28 Liga MX appearances. His inclusion highlights Pochettino's consideration of recent club form.
Gio Reyna's selection has generated debate. The 23-year-old attacking midfielder possesses considerable skill, but his history of injuries, inconsistent club performance at Borussia Mönchengladbach (only one goal and no assists in 19 games this season), and past disciplinary issues with the national team make his inclusion a contentious one. This decision underscores Pochettino's strategic choices for the tournament.
The roster also includes Seattle Sounders midfielder Cristian Roldan, along with three players who missed the 2022 World Cup due to injury or late cuts: center backs Miles Robinson and Chris Richards, and forward Ricardo Pepi. Their return suggests a focus on experience and depth for the squad.
Half of the current American roster participated in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, providing a mix of seasoned players and new talent. Coach Pochettino is slated to officially unveil the complete squad in New York City on Tuesday. The United States, co-hosting the tournament with Canada and Mexico, will compete in Group D alongside Paraguay, Australia, and Turkey, with their opening match against Paraguay scheduled for June 12th at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.
The USMNT's final 26-man roster includes a strong goalkeeping trio of Matt Freese, Chris Brady, and Matt Turner. The defensive lineup features Max Arfsten, Sergino Dest, Alex Freeman, Mark McKenzie, Tim Ream, Chris Richards, Antonee Robinson, Miles Robinson, Auston Trusty, and Joe Scally. In the midfield, Tyler Adams, Sebastian Berhalter, Cristian Roldan, Weston McKennie, Gio Reyna, and Malik Tillman have been selected. The forward contingent is comprised of Brenden Aaronson, Haji Wright, Folarin Balogun, Christian Pulisic, Ricardo Pepi, Tim Weah, and Alejandro Zendejas. This diverse group represents Pochettino's vision for a competitive World Cup campaign.