USMNT Squad Analysis: March Internationals vs Belgium and Portugal
Key Absences and Surprise Inclusions
Tyler Adams Injury
Midfielder Tyler Adams was a notable omission from the USMNT roster due to an injury sustained in Bournemouth’s recent match against Burnley. While Mauricio Pochettino does not anticipate a long-term absence, Adams’ fitness recovery means he’ll sit out the March friendlies. His absence opens up midfield opportunities for emerging talents.
Gio Reyna’s Unexpected Call-Up
One of the biggest surprises in the March roster is the inclusion of Gio Reyna. Despite logging only 26 Bundesliga minutes this year for Borussia Mönchengladbach, Reyna’s November goal against Paraguay demonstrated his attacking potential. Pochettino’s decision reflects confidence in Reyna’s ability to compete for an attacking midfield spot alongside Malik Tillman and Diego Luna.
Midfield and Attacking Options
Competition for Attacking Midfield Roles
With a shortage of proven attacking midfielders, the USMNT coaching staff will closely monitor performances in this window. Alongside Reyna, players like Malik Tillman, Tanner Tessmann and Cristian Roldan have a chance to stake their claim. Alex Zendejas, despite his form for Club América, did not make the squad, underscoring the depth challenges in central creative roles.
Forward Line Depth
The forward group features experienced internationals and rising stars. Christian Pulisic (AC Milan) and Brenden Aaronson (Leeds United) provide World Cup pedigree, while Folarin Balogun (Monaco) and Ricardo Pepi (PSV Eindhoven) bring youthful energy. Patrick Agyemang and Tim Weah offer versatility down the wings, allowing Pochettino to rotate attackers based on opposition strengths.
Defensive Considerations
Back Three Dynamics
Pochettino’s shift to a back three yielded positive results at the end of 2025. Tim Ream (Charlotte FC) and Chris Richards (Crystal Palace) are virtual locks for two of the center-back positions. The third spot remains competitive, with Mark McKenzie (Toulouse) and Auston Trusty (Celtic) in contention. Joe Scally’s ability to operate as a third center back gives the squad tactical flexibility.
Fullback Versatility
On the right side, Alex Freeman (Villarreal) and Tim Weah (Marseille) provide attacking impetus, while Antonee Robinson (Fulham) and Miles Robinson (FC Cincinnati) cover the left. Without Sergino Dest, these versatile defenders and wing-backs must step up to maintain width and defensive solidity.
Testing the Squad Against Elite Opponents
Facing Belgium and Portugal in Atlanta offers a critical World Cup–level test. Even if Cristiano Ronaldo is absent, Portugal’s deep talent pool and Belgium’s experienced core will challenge the USMNT’s tactical cohesion. These matches serve as high-stakes simulations ahead of the CONCACAF qualifiers and the 2026 World Cup on home soil.
Full Roster Breakdown
Goalkeepers
• Chris Brady (Chicago Fire)
• Roman Celentano (FC Cincinnati)
• Matt Freese (New York City FC)
• Matt Turner (New England Revolution)
Defenders
• Max Arfsten (Columbus Crew)
• Alex Freeman (Villarreal)
• Mark McKenzie (Toulouse)
• Tim Ream (Charlotte FC)
• Chris Richards (Crystal Palace)
• Antonee Robinson (Fulham)
• Miles Robinson (FC Cincinnati)
• Joe Scally (Borussia Mönchengladbach)
• Auston Trusty (Celtic)
Midfielders
• Sebastian Berhalter (Vancouver Whitecaps)
• Johnny Cardoso (Atletico Madrid)
• Weston McKennie (Juventus)
• Aidan Morris (Middlesbrough)
• Gio Reyna (Borussia Mönchengladbach)
• Cristian Roldan (Seattle Sounders)
• Tanner Tessmann (Lyon)
• Malik Tillman (Bayer Leverkusen)
Forwards
• Brenden Aaronson (Leeds United)
• Patrick Agyemang (Derby County)
• Folarin Balogun (Monaco)
• Ricardo Pepi (PSV Eindhoven)
• Christian Pulisic (AC Milan)
• Tim Weah (Marseille)
Looking Ahead
As the USMNT prepares for Belgium and Portugal, this roster window will reveal depth in key positions and test tactical adaptations under Pochettino. With World Cup qualification in focus, standout performances could cement roles for the summer’s biggest stage.