The U.S. men’s national team’s first window since its Copa America disappointment wasn’t really a step in the right direction.
Mikey Varas’ squad suffered a 2-1 loss to rivals Canada before conceding a late equalizer in a 1-1 draw with New Zealand. While the most exciting news of the international window was Mauricio Pochettino’s official hiring as head coach, the performances from the USMNT players did not follow suit.
There were a few bright spots though with Aidan Morris and Marlon Fossey headlining the difference makers in the camp. However, a few failed to rise to the occasion like Josh Sargent and Tim Ream.
Here is a look at the USMNT players who boosted or lowered their stock the most in September’s window:
Winners
Aidan Morris
Aidan Morris is certainly enjoying a positive period in his career.
After a fast start with English second-tier side Middlesbrough, Morris delivered two positive performances against Canada and New Zealand. The two-time MLS Cup winner assisted on the USMNT’s lone goal against the Canadians before delivering a strong 86 minutes against New Zealand.
Morris now heads back to Teesside with even more confidence under his belt.
Marlon Fossey
Five years after his last inclusion in a USMNT camp, Marlon Fossey left a positive mark in the squad.
Fossey, 26, logged 90 minutes against New Zealand in his first senior international appearance. The Standard Liege full back was strong on both ends of the field against the All Whites, holding firm defensively, while also linking up with his offensive teammates in the final third.
If not for Ricardo Pepi’s offsides call, Fossey would’ve had his first USMNT assist on Tuesday.
With Sergino Dest remaining sidelined, Fossey has a strong chance to stay in Pochettino’s plans this fall.
Patrick Schulte
Matt Turner’s lack of playing time at club level could open the door to a competitive race for the USMNT’s No. 1 shirt. Enter Patrick Schulte.
Schulte made five saves in the 2-1 loss to Canada, bailing the Americans out on several occasions. The 2023 MLS Cup winner also made a pair of important claims on corner kicks, while completing over 95% of his passes (short and long passing).
Schulte has enjoyed a quick rise in his career and could be in the mix for more caps in October.
Losers
Tim Ream
Tim Ream did not have a good day against Canada.
Ream played 90 minutes in defense, but made one major error which led to Canada’s second goal of the match. Although he wasn’t fully at blame for Canada’s opening goal as well, his quick pass to Johnny Cardoso eventually led to Jacob Shaffelburg’s strike.
The 36-year-old will try and stay in Pochettino’s plans come October, but with a new coach at the helm, it may also mark the end of Ream’s international career.
Johnny Cardoso
Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie’s absences opened the door for Johnny Cardoso to boost his stock with the USMNT. Sadly, he did not take advantage of that opportunity.
Cardoso’s error against Canada led to the visitors opening goal of the match. While at times Cardoso looked for passing lanes and opportunities, he also took the safe way out with his passes at times.
He played a total of 66 minutes over the two matches, but didn’t truly impact either match.
Josh Sargent
Josh Sargent might be scoring goals for Norwich City but his USMNT role has remained stagnant.
Sargent did not feature in either match of the September window, continuing what has been a frustrating time for him on the international level. The 24-year-old has been impactful for Norwich City, there’s no denying that, but potential fitness issues could be what’s holding him back from a larger USMNT role.
Folarin Balogun, Ricardo Pepi, and Haji Wright all remain in front of Sargent in the USMNT striker pecking order.
Which players impressed you the most in September’s camp? Who disappointed?
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