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USMNT Finalizes World Cup Prep as Veterans Mentor First‑Time Players

Veterans are sharing Qatar lessons and practical advice with newcomers during the team’s final warm‑up phase before the tournament.

Overview

  • Mauricio Pochettino is leading the U.S. squad that has filed its 26‑player roster and is finishing final preparations at the Fayetteville, Georgia training base.
  • Thirteen members of the 2022 World Cup team returned to provide a core of tournament experience and daily leadership in camp.
  • The team will close its tune‑ups with a send‑off friendly against Germany in Chicago and then open the World Cup at home against Paraguay in Los Angeles.
  • Veterans have been giving practical advice to first‑time players, with goalkeeper Matt Turner urging rookies to document moments and Cristian Roldan stressing that pressure comes with privilege.
  • Sebastian Berhalter, who attended the 2022 World Cup to support his father Gregg, will travel as a player in 2026 and described his father as a key personal and professional influence.