Overview

• The U.S. has dropped four consecutive friendlies, culminating in a 4-0 home loss to Switzerland and a 2-1 defeat by Türkiye, marking its longest skid since 2007.
• Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, Tim Weah and other senior players are absent from the Gold Cup roster for rest, club commitments or injury rehab, leaving a squad that averages just 16 caps per player.
• Pochettino has acknowledged tactical shortcomings and is considering shifts such as a three-man defense to address persistent defensive vulnerabilities.
• Veterans like Tim Ream and Walker Zimmerman are leading small-group discussions to reinforce communication and collective responsibility among younger teammates.
• Pulisic has defended his choice to skip the tournament, calling public doubts about his commitment “way out of line” as the team prepares to face Trinidad and Tobago on June 15.