Mauricio Pochettino's full 26-man World Cup roster for the United States men's national team has leaked ahead of its official announcement, obtained by The Guardian and confirmed by multiple sources.
The squad signals a strategic shift, rewarding recent form while leaving out several established players.
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Surprise Inclusions
Club América winger Alejandro Zendejas earned a spot after a standout season in Liga MX, with 12 goals and seven assists.
Despite limited international minutes—just 139 across six caps—the 28-year-old will make his World Cup debut.
Gio Reyna also secured his place despite only 520 club minutes this season.
Pochettino has publicly backed the 23-year-old, who aims to move past his 2022 World Cup behavioral issues and the subsequent fallout involving former coach Gregg Berhalter.
In a twist, Sebastian Berhalter—son of the former USMNT manager—made the cut.
The 25-year-old Vancouver Whitecaps midfielder never played for US youth teams but earned his spot through an MLS Best XI season, leading his club to their first MLS Cup and Concacaf Champions Cup final.
He offers a dangerous set-piece option.
Notable Omissions
Real Salt Lake's Diego Luna is the most shocking exclusion.
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The 22-year-old was a key figure in Pochettino's buildup, scoring four goals in 17 appearances in 2025, and featured in promotional campaigns.
A federation spokesperson clarified Pochettino had no role in those ads. Luna's recent injury issues may have contributed.
