Why Weah & McKennie May Be Affected by Pochettino’s Strategy
Analyst Herc Gomez discusses the possibility that Timothy Weah and Weston McKennie could find themselves out of the picture in the new system set up by the U.S. men’s national team coach, Mauricio Pochettino.
The excitement that comes with the beginning of the European football season has worn off as teams settle into the routines and the chill of autumn sets in. For members of the U.S. men’s national team, this season has brought on a mix of challenges, including injuries that have endangered some player’s prospects for the upcoming FIFA World Cup. However, some players are rising to the occasion.
Throughout this season, ESPN will be keeping track of players’ progress as they prepare for the World Cup. Expect weekly updates as we count down to June 11, ensuring that the U.S. team roster won’t hold any surprises when it is announced for the home World Cup. Only 224 days remain!
Tyler Adams | Midfielder | AFC Bournemouth
2025-26 minutes: 803
2025-26 FotMob rating: 7.1
Adams Overcomes Injury Challenges
Tyler Adams faced serious injury concerns last season, undergoing multiple surgeries, which limited his participation. He managed only three league appearances during the 2023-24 season and didn’t return until late October of this season.
Since making his comeback, Adams has steadily regained his fitness, playing 28 matches last campaign and contributing significantly to Bournemouth’s impressive start this season, where they currently sit in second place in the Premier League standings. With 97% of available minutes played, he has earned recognition from manager Andoni Iraola for his leadership and consistency, which will be essential for his performance with the national team.
Cameron Carter-Vickers | Center Back | Celtic
2025-26 minutes: 1,200
2025-26 FotMob rating: 7.3
Carter-Vickers’ Injury Raises Questions
Carter-Vickers has been a reliable presence for Celtic this season, but an Achilles injury sustained during a match in the UEFA Europa League might jeopardize his World Cup chances, as he will be sidelined for surgery.
This injury could open the door for teammate Auston Trusty, who also dealt with injuries but has recently been included on the bench. Following a recent performance where the replacement made critical mistakes, it may be Trusty’s time to step up.
Weston McKennie | Midfielder | Juventus
2025-26 minutes: 624
2025-26 FotMob rating: 6.7
McKennie’s Quest for Redemption
Throughout his stint at Juventus, McKennie has consistently had to prove himself, especially with managerial changes. Despite having fitness setbacks, he has often pushed his way into the starting XI. However, with a new managerial challenge ahead, he must again solidify his position.
After the recent firing of Igor Tudor, where McKennie had been encouraged to improve his habits, a new test lies ahead under caretaker Massimo Brambilla. A strong performance in his recent match indicates potential, but McKennie knows he must keep proving himself with a new full-time manager in charge.
In-Form XI
U.S. manager Mauricio Pochettino has emphasized that positions are not guaranteed. Currently, Matt Freese of New York City FC has been delivering solid performances, putting him in a good position for the starting goalkeeper role in the USMNT. With other contenders sidelined due to clubs not competing in the playoffs, Freese’s prospects have improved.
To add to Freese’s advantage, Sergiño Dest is back in the spotlight following a brief benching, returning to the lineup and performing well in a critical match. Meanwhile, Tim Weah is managing a thigh injury, but his coach remains cautious about it.
In the ongoing battle for the striker position, Folarin Balogun has been impactful, scoring a pivotal goal after missing an earlier opportunity. Both he and teammate Haji Wright, who scored against Australia, are proving to be strong contenders, with Balogun maintaining momentum at both club and international levels.
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