Meta Description: Mauricio Pochettino has released his USMNT roster for the September 2025 friendlies. Find out why key stars like Weston McKennie, Brenden Aaronson, and Matt Turner were left out, why MLS talent is heavily featured, and what it means for Christian Pulisic.
Pochettino Expands the USMNT Player Pool
USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino has taken a bold approach ahead of the September 2025 international friendlies. Instead of relying on a set group of veterans, he emphasized that he is tracking 60–65 players weekly, creating an open competition across every position.
This camp marks the last opportunity to evaluate new players in bulk before the focus narrows in October. The result is a roster that has sparked as much discussion for the names missing as for those included.
Why Key USMNT Stars Were Left Off
Several fit and well-known players were omitted from the September friendlies, including:
- Matt Turner
- Weston McKennie
- Brenden Aaronson
- Johnny Cardoso
- Joe Scally
- Mark McKenzie
- Tanner Tessmann
- Aidan Morris
- Haji Wright
That group alone could form the core of a competitive XI, leaving many fans puzzled. The midfield in particular lacks physicality without Tessmann and Morris, while Turner’s absence raises questions about the U.S. goalkeeper depth chart.
Pochettino’s message is clear: no player is guaranteed a spot, and response at club level will determine future call-ups.
MLS Players Dominate the September Roster
One of the biggest takeaways from this camp is the heavy MLS representation. While some critics see it as a step back, Pochettino has defended his selections, pointing to the size of the league and its proven history of producing stars like Tyler Adams.
Emerging talents such as Diego Luna and Alex Freeman are seen as future European exports, but for now, their domestic form has earned them a place. With Pochettino already familiar with many of the European-based players, MLS provides a deeper talent pool to explore.
Christian Pulisic’s Role Under Pochettino
The relationship between Pochettino and Christian Pulisic remains a storyline to watch. While Pochettino downplayed past tensions, he admitted they haven’t spoken directly yet.
Pulisic struggled in the March camp, and his form this month will be closely scrutinized. With the USMNT needing its captain at his best, how Pulisic responds to the new environment could shape the narrative heading toward the 2026 World Cup cycle.
Goalkeeper Shake-Up: Matt Turner Dropped
For the first time in years, the USMNT roster does not include Matt Turner, Zack Steffen, or Ethan Horvath. Instead, fresh faces like Roman Celentano, Patrick Schulte, and Jonathan Klinsmann are being tested.
Turner is not finished with the national team, but Pochettino wants him to re-establish form at club level and prove he still deserves the No. 1 spot. This is part of the coach’s effort to prevent complacency and ensure competition across all positions.
What’s at Stake in September Friendlies
While results in friendlies are often dismissed, Pochettino has made it clear that winning matters. After a disappointing Copa América group-stage exit and a lackluster Gold Cup, the USMNT needs to rebuild momentum and reignite fan confidence.
Aggression, urgency, and positive results are expected. As analysts noted, “No one cares if you outshoot the other team but lose 2–0.” The goal is to set a new tone heading into 2026.
Final Thoughts
The USMNT September 2025 roster is more than just a squad list—it’s a message. Mauricio Pochettino is challenging veterans, elevating MLS players, and demanding competition across the board.
With Christian Pulisic under the spotlight, Matt Turner left out, and new faces eager to prove themselves, these friendlies could mark a turning point for the United States men’s national team.