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Mauricio Pochettino has finalised his USMNT squad for the World Cup, and the key talking points include strong confidence in Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie, along with one unresolved question in goalkeeping.

Selecting a World Cup squad is a meticulous task, and once revealed, it often reflects the coach’s thought process. Which choices stand out? Which areas did the coach prioritise? What elements were kept under wraps until the end?

These questions are now answered with Pochettino’s announcement of his 26-man U.S. Men’s National Team squad. Having been unofficially known for a few days, the official confirmation came on Tuesday. These 26 players will represent American football in its most significant tournament ever. While injuries could still necessitate late changes, this group largely represents what Pochettino considers his best possible selection.

Now that the roster is confirmed, what can we infer? Which decisions defined this selection process? Which positions could shape the team’s fate this summer? Here are five major takeaways from the USMNT squad.

Three-man defence confirmed

For much of last autumn, it seemed likely the USMNT would stick with a three-centre-back formation. Then in March, Pochettino introduced a twist, notably in the match against Belgium. However, it now appears clear that the team will use three central defenders, with the only remaining question being who those three will be.

Pochettino has often said that tactics are flexible, and what appears to be a strict formation to outsiders might actually shift fluidly. The USMNT might play with three central defenders out of possession, but one could move wide during build-up play. Similarly, a full-back might tuck in to form a back three while defending. While seemingly straightforward, the number of defenders chosen suggests a strong commitment to this system.

Another factor behind the defensive depth is Chris Richards’ recent injury, which could have influenced Pochettino’s decision. If Richards misses games, others must step in, and having multiple options offers valuable security.

This defensive-heavy approach also stands out given the relatively small midfield group, which is a key observation in itself.

Pressure on Adams and McKennie

One advantage of this World Cup’s schedule is that group games are spaced a week apart, allowing coaches to rely on a consistent starting XI without concerns about fatigue.

In this setup, Pochettino can heavily rely on his two European-based stars, Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie. The coach has included just four central midfielders, with Sebastian Berhalter and Cristian Roldan expected to contribute, but clearly, Adams and McKennie will carry the bulk of responsibility. Both are elite players whose styles complement each other perfectly.

By leaving out Tanner Tessmann, Aidan Morris, and Yunus Musah, Pochettino has signalled that this squad is built around Adams and McKennie. The risk is evident — any injury or suspension could leave the team exposed — but Pochettino seems confident in his first-choice pairing.

Perhaps the situation might have been different if Johnny Cardoso were fit or if Morris and Tessmann had impressed against strong opposition in March. Regardless, Adams and McKennie clearly have Pochettino’s full trust.

Pochettino welcomes goalkeeper competition

There was speculation about the goalkeeping selection, but Pochettino ultimately stuck with the expected trio. The real question now is who will start.

Matt Freese has been the preferred choice for over a year and has done little to lose that role. Pochettino has given no strong indication that Freese’s position is under threat, making him the likely starter in the opener against Paraguay. Yet, the competition remains slightly open.

Matt Turner, the 2022 World Cup starter, is also back in the squad. Having rediscovered his form as the standout goalkeeper in MLS this season, Turner brings renewed confidence after his stint in England. Though his last two USMNT appearances saw multiple goals conceded, most were not his fault. Still, those results don’t bolster his claim.

As the World Cup nears, the battle for the number one spot remains one to watch closely.

Confidence in the strikers

This was one of the simpler choices. The USMNT currently boasts three in-form strikers in Europe — Folarin Balogun, Ricardo Pepi, and Haji Wright — and all three have been included. No surprises there.

History has seen key forwards left out, such as Pepi in 2022 and Landon Donovan in 2014. But this time, the decision was straightforward. The trio maintained consistent scoring form, leaving no room for late challengers. Patrick Agyemang’s injury reduced the options from four to three, making the selection even clearer.

Now, Balogun, Pepi, and Wright will compete for playing time this summer — an expected and healthy rivalry within the squad.

No major surprises

World Cup squads often include at least one shock selection, but Pochettino’s list is relatively predictable. Alejandro Zendejas and Gio Reyna could be considered mild surprises, but both have been involved recently, so their inclusion isn’t shocking.

There were no out-of-the-blue inclusions like Noahkai Banks or sudden arrivals of new dual nationals. Young talents such as Zavier Gozo, Adri Mehmeti, and Julian Hall were informed that their time will come in the future. There was no late veteran addition like Tim Ream’s in 2022, though Ream himself remains part of the setup.

In essence, this roster reflects calculated decisions rather than surprises. The drama was expected, and the final choices align with established logic and experience, even if some fans might find them unexpected.