Overview
- Calling March the team’s starting point, Mauricio Pochettino says the United States will approach upcoming warm-ups as World Cup-level tests to cement its identity.
- The schedule is set: Belgium and Portugal in Atlanta in March, Senegal in Charlotte in May, and a June send-off against Germany in Chicago.
- Pochettino says he has a very good idea of his 26-player squad after evaluating more than 70 players over roughly 18 months.
- Injuries remain pivotal factors, with Tyler Adams sidelined by a knee issue and Ricardo Pepi working back from a broken forearm as their readiness is monitored.
- Pochettino is unconcerned about late club moves, backing reported Villarreal-bound right back Alex Freeman and stressing player comfort and adaptation.