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GOAL takes a deep dive into the key narratives and insights from the first two days of the U.S. men’s national team’s training camp, marking the beginning of the USMNT World Cup notebook.

ATLANTA – The U.S. men’s national team has kicked off its World Cup preparations in Atlanta. The players arrived at the U.S. Soccer National Training Center on Wednesday morning, and training sessions have been long, intense, and humid in the southern heat.

As the World Cup approaches, Mauricio Pochettino and several of his players have spoken to the media about the early stages of this journey. Here are the standout storylines, discussion points, and memorable moments from the first few days of camp.

Pochettino’s starting XI and Pulisic’s spot in it

With two friendlies remaining before the USMNT’s World Cup opener, plenty could still change. However, in an ideal scenario without any setbacks, Mauricio Pochettino already has a clear vision for his starting lineup.

Speaking to reporters, Pochettino confirmed that he has already mapped out his starting XI for the first match against Paraguay. While he acknowledged that things could shift slightly depending on training performances, his overall plan is set.

“Yes. If I’m honest, yes,” he said when asked if he already knows his first XI. “The only thing that could change is what I see in training.”

When questioned about how long he’s had this lineup in mind, Pochettino replied, “Before March.”

Christian Pulisic is almost certain to be in that starting XI despite his recent dip in form. The AC Milan forward has yet to score this year and hasn’t found the net for the national team since 2024. Milan’s recent failure to qualify for the Champions League has also added to his challenges.

Pochettino, however, remains fully confident in his star attacker.

“We’re going to use these three weeks to help him regain confidence, and we truly believe in him,” Pochettino said. “We are confident that he will perform. Okay, he hasn’t scored in the last six months or so, but he’ll score at the World Cup.”

He added, “Yes, I really trust him. He has great attitude and commitment. He’s pushing hard to reach his best level, and I believe he’ll get there.”

Understanding the midfield setup

One of the most discussed topics during the early days of camp was the midfield composition. Who will take charge in the middle of the park?

Pochettino isn’t concerned. He believes the team doesn’t need multiple holding midfielders, just one, and he’s confident with the options available.

“In the way we understand football, it’s about having quality in the squad and maintaining balance,” Pochettino explained. “We don’t need another holding midfielder because I think Sebastian [Berhalter], Cristian [Roldan], or Tyler [Adams] can handle that role. If we play with one, that’s enough. We just need to control the ball better than our opponents—that’s the idea.”

The coach also mentioned other possible midfield options. Malik Tillman, Weston McKennie, and Gio Reyna can all play in central roles, while Joe Scally, Sergiño Dest, and Brenden Aaronson can also slot in when needed. Despite the limited number of pure central midfielders, the squad offers versatility and tactical flexibility.

“We have big names like Tyler or Weston who can play deeper, but I’ve played there before too,” Tillman said. “I’m comfortable in that position. We have several players who can fill that role, each with their own style, and that versatility can only help us.”

Adams added, “When you talk to guys in the squad, there are many who can play in midfield. I’m not entirely sure where Brenden or Gio are listed, but they can both play in central positions as well. It gives us flexibility.”

Reyna’s road to redemption

When Gio Reyna received his call-up, he was out for smoothies with his wife. Too nervous to return home, they sat in the car waiting for the call—and when it came, joy followed. That excitement still lingers for him.

“I think that high will stay with us until the tournament ends,” he said. “It’s an incredible opportunity to play a World Cup on home soil. The first few days were hectic in New York with the media, but I’m happy to focus on football and training now.”

Reyna stressed that his focus is firmly on the present and future. After returning to action with Borussia Monchengladbach at the end of the season, he feels fit and ready to play wherever Pochettino needs him. Off the pitch, he says life feels different now—with his wife and their dog, Melo, sharing in the excitement.

Asked whether the events of 2022 still motivate him, Reyna admitted that he’s ready to move on.

“It’s honestly a bit tiring now,” he said. “It doesn’t affect me anymore; it just confuses me when I get asked about it. It’s been four years, and everyone’s moved on. I rarely even think about it.”

He continued, “Right now, I’m focused on this World Cup and what I can do to help the team. I understand why people ask, but I’ve moved far beyond that and I’m just looking forward to what’s ahead.”

Reyna is one of 13 returning players from the 2022 squad. He believes that experience—both good and bad—will serve the team well this summer.

“Last World Cup, we were young,” he said. “It’s normal to struggle in big moments when most of the team is under 23. Now everyone’s four years older, more mature as players and people, and that will make a big difference.”

‘Weston’s personality was just intense’

When Folarin Balogun got his World Cup call, he recalled his first team dinner in Orlando—the one that helped him decide to join the USMNT. What stood out most? Weston McKennie.

“That was my first time meeting Weston, CP, and a lot of the guys,” Balogun said. “Weston’s personality was just intense—but in a good way. They made me feel welcome, even though I’m more reserved.”

Years later, Balogun found himself sitting next to McKennie on the flight from New York to Atlanta—and not much had changed.

“I’m still reserved, and Weston’s still bothering me,” Balogun joked. “We sat next to each other on the plane, played Monopoly, and when I tried to nap afterward, he kept flicking my ear. Stuff like that.”

He added, “The relationships are great. It’s nice that everyone has stayed the same. In this sport, things can change people, but this group has stayed grounded.”

Freese’s jersey inspiration

Goalkeeper Matt Freese has long worn the number 49 throughout his career. If it were up to him, he’d wear it for the USMNT as well. But FIFA rules require squads to number players from 1 to 26.

So, Freese chose number 24—a number with special meaning.

“It’s obviously Tim Howard’s number, which makes it special,” Freese explained. “He’s done incredible things for this team, and I’d love the chance to do the same. I grew up watching him, so wearing his number at a World Cup is really cool.”

Aside from the number, Freese hasn’t changed much about his routine. Whether at home or on the road, he sticks to his habits to maintain consistency.

“I bring my pitcher, my kettle, even my alarm clock from home,” he said. “It’s about keeping things consistent. If you can stay steady in small moments, the game itself doesn’t change. It helps me handle pressure and big moments better.”