US coach Pochettino bets on youth for upcoming friendlies

Mauricio Pochettino, the new coach of the US national team, is prioritizing young talent for their upcoming friendlies against Peru, Chile, Mexico, and Canada. Pochettino, who took the helm after leading the team through the 2030 World Cup, has named 28 players for the matches following their round of 16 exit from the 2022 World Cup.

The squad includes 13 uncapped players alongside veterans. Notable absences include Christian Pulisic, who recently returned to AC Milan after an injury, and Folarin Balogun. The Argentine manager expressed confidence in the chosen players, stating that they are the best options available for the upcoming games. He emphasized that the goal is to provide opportunities for growth and development for the young talent, such as 16-year-old Cavan Sullivan, who has impressed in Major League Soccer.

Pochettino highlighted a fresh approach to squad selection, focusing on potential and today's performance rather than past accomplishments. The US will face Peru on September 26 in Orlando, Chile on September 29 in St. Louis, Mexico on October 3 in Glendale, Arizona, and Canada on October 6 in St. Paul, Minnesota.