Pochettino announces USA squad for upcoming friendlies — Teenager Sullivan called up, Pulisic not included

Cavan Sullivan, the 16-year-old Philadelphia Union midfielder, is set to join Manchester City next year. | Photo Credit: Getty Images

Only 13 players who were part of USA’s FIFA World Cup 2026 squad have been called up by head coach Mauricio Pochettino for upcoming friendlies against Peru, Chile, Mexico and Canada.

Injured Christian Pulisic and Folarin Balogun are among the players left out, while 16-year-old Cavan Sullivan is one of the 13 new faces in the roster announced on Thursday.

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“This is the beginning of a fresh start for everyone, and we are excited in these first matches to bring a group of experienced players along with some young talents who have great potential,” Pochettino said in a statement.

“It will be important that they all understand our culture, our way of working, and, of course, the principles of how we want to play. Most importantly, they must show the commitment to representing the country in the way our fans deserve,” he added.

FULL USMNT SQUAD FOR UPCOMING FRIENDLIES

• Goalkeepers: Chris Brady (Chicago), Matt Freese (New York City), Diego Kochen (Lyngby), Brian Schwake (Nashville).
• Defenders: George Campbell (West Bromwich Albion), Sergiño Dest (PSV Eindhoven), Alex Freeman (Villarreal), Peyton Miller (New England), Neil Pierre (Philadelphia), Chris Richards (Crystal Palace), Antonee Robinson (Fulham), Miles Robinson (Cincinnati), Auston Trusty (Celtic), Frankie Westfield (Philadelphia).
• Midfielders: Tyler Adams (Bournemouth), Mathis Albert (Borussia Dortmund), Sebastian Berhalter (Middlesbrough), Zavier Gozo (Crystal Palace), Adri Mehmeti (New York Red Bulls), Yunus Musah (AC Milan), Brooklyn Raines (New England), Gio Reyna (Strasbourg), Malik Tillman (Bayer Leverkusen).
• Forwards: Cole Campbell (SV Elversberg), Justin Ellis (Orlando), Julian Hall (New York Red Bulls), Ricardo Pepi (PSV Eindhoven), Cavan Sullivan (Philadelphia).