U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) coach Mauricio Pochettino has officially named a 26-man squad for the upcoming international friendlies against Ecuador and Australia, scheduled for October 10 and 14. These matches are part of the team’s ongoing preparations for the 2026 World Cup, and they represent an important opportunity for the squad to continue building chemistry and fine-tuning their strategies ahead of next year’s global competition.
One of the most significant inclusions in the roster is Antonee Robinson, who makes his return to the team following a successful recovery from knee surgery. Robinson, a vital figure in the USMNT’s defense, brings both experience and skill to the backline. His pace and ability to contribute in both defensive and attacking phases will be crucial as the team looks to tighten its defense in the lead-up to the World Cup. His return adds depth and stability to a defense that has been a key focus for the coaching staff in recent months.
In addition to Robinson’s return, another notable addition to the squad is Patrick Agyemang, who re-enters the fold after his recent move to Derby County. Agyemang’s presence in the forward line adds further depth to an attack that will need to be firing on all cylinders come the World Cup. His move to Derby County signals a step forward in his development, and his return to the national team offers a fresh dynamic, bringing new energy to the team’s attacking options.
Key figures from the current USMNT setup, including goalkeeper Matt Turner, midfielder Weston McKennie, and forward Christian Pulisic, have all been included in the squad. Turner, who has been solid between the posts for both his club and country, will continue to be a key leader in goal. McKennie, known for his physicality and versatility in midfield, will play an integral role in linking up play and driving the team forward. Pulisic, one of the standout attacking talents, remains central to the team’s offensive strategy with his dribbling, vision, and ability to score important goals. All three players are expected to play pivotal roles in the friendlies and will be vital in helping the team reach its potential as the World Cup approaches.
The upcoming friendlies against Ecuador and Australia serve as important tests for the team, allowing Pochettino and his coaching staff to assess the squad’s readiness and make final adjustments as needed. These matches will give the staff an opportunity to experiment with different formations, tactical approaches, and player combinations, all while evaluating the team’s strengths and weaknesses. For many players, these friendlies could be their last chance to make a strong impression ahead of the final World Cup squad selection, so the competition for starting spots is expected to be intense.
As the USMNT looks to build momentum heading into the 2026 World Cup, these matches will be crucial in shaping the team’s overall preparation. With a mix of experienced veterans and emerging young talent, Pochettino has crafted a squad that is capable of competing at the highest level. The friendlies against Ecuador and Australia will provide valuable insights into how the team is progressing, and they will help ensure that the USMNT is in peak form when they take the field for their World Cup opener. These two fixtures will be pivotal in fine-tuning the team’s tactics and preparing for the challenges ahead on the world stage.