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Pochettino’s Pruning: The Controversy Behind the USMNT 2026 Roster

June 9, 2026

By: Trinity Martin-Sadler, Intern Journalist

Publication Date: June 9th, 2026

World Cup Roster Tension

The transition from a provisional list of 55 players to the final 26-player World Cup team often brings stress and challenges. Mauricio Pochettino’s first major decision for the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) has stirred considerable debate. Just three days before the official announcement, details of the roster leaked, likely due to the impersonal way players were notified of their status.

Those who made the team received personal video messages and were invited to join a private WhatsApp group. In contrast, the 29 players who did not make the cut, including notable names like Diego Luna and Tanner Tessmann, learned about their exclusion through a mass email. This approach, along with some controversial tactical choices, has led fans and analysts to question Pochettino’s "best fit" strategy as the U.S. prepares to face Paraguay at SoFi Stadium on June 12.

Selection Legitimacy

The final roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup features a coach who prioritizes defensive strength over midfield options. Pochettino selected 10 defenders but only four recognized central midfielders: Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie, Sebastian Berhalter, and Cristian Roldan.

This heavy emphasis on defense has surprised many, especially given the team's need for creativity and ball control during the group stage. According to Sportsmedia News, the U.S. typically relies on a stronger midfield of five or six players in past tournaments.

Notable Exclusions: Luna, Tessmann, and Morris

Criticism is largely directed at the exclusion of Diego Luna and Tanner Tessmann from the team. Luna, who has been a standout player for Real Salt Lake, had frequently started under Pochettino, participating in 17 of the last 18 matches and performing exceptionally well during the 2025 Gold Cup. Although he suffered a minor knee injury in March 2026, Luna returned to his previous form. Despite this, he was replaced by players who had significantly fewer minutes of playing time.

It was surprising that Tanner Tessmann was left out of the squad. The Lyon midfielder was expected to be a clear choice until he suffered a "muscle strain" late in the Ligue 1 season, which raised doubts about his availability. Even though team doctors said Tessmann could play, Pochettino chose not to include him. Aidan Morris from Middlesbrough was also left out.

The Risks of Inactivity

While form players like Luna were left out, Pochettino demonstrated considerable confidence in "the old guard" and in players returning from injury. Gio Reyna was included in the 26-man squad despite having played only 137 league minutes for Borussia Mönchengladbach in the first five months of 2026.

Pochettino chose Tyler Adams and Sergiño Dest for the team, showing he prefers experienced players over those in good form. Although both players missed the March 2026 international games because of injuries, their selection suggests the coaching staff values their leadership. This is true even if they aren't fully fit to play.

Managerial defense

During his first press conference after the announcement, Pochettino stood firm and avoided discussing the players he left at home. When journalists asked about why he didn’t call Tessmann or Luna, he redirected the conversation to focus on the players who are currently at camp.

This approach has become typical of Pochettino's style at Sportsmedia News, where he highlights the importance of team unity rather than individual achievements. However, not communicating with the players left out has led to early criticism of his leadership.

Lasting impacts and the road to SoFi

The U.S. team is in a tough spot because they rely on only four midfielders. This makes them very dependent on Tyler Adams' health. If he gets injured, Pochettino might have to play defenders in different positions or change his favorite 4-3-3 formation since there aren't any players who can fill Adams' defensive role.

As the squad arrives at their training base in Southern California, they shift their focus from the drama of cuts to preparing for the competition. FIFA rules allow for injury replacements up to 24 hours before the first match. This means there is still a chance for Luna or Tessmann to join the team, but it would require a medical withdrawal to bring them back.

The debate about "Pochettino’s Pruning" will likely continue until June 12. If the USMNT wins convincingly against Paraguay, his strategy of choosing fit players over those with good form will be seen as smart. However, if the midfield lacks energy and depth, the absence of players left at home will be a big concern for the rest of the tournament. For now, the 26 players in camp are the only ones that matter to the coach.

Sources Verified

FOX Sports: Mauricio Pochettino: 'Disrespectful' To Focus On USA World Cup Roster Omissions
- Source for: Pochettino’s quotes, the defense of his roster, and the status of injured stars like Tyler Adams and Sergiño Dest.
AS USA: These are the biggest snubs of the official 2026 USMNT World Cup roster: Diego Luna, Tanner Tessmann…
- Source for: Details on Diego Luna's form at RSL, Tanner Tessmann's injury/omission status, and Aidan Morris being left out.
SI Soccer: The 13 Most Shocking Omissions from 2026 World Cup Rosters
- Source for: Strategic context on why top managers are prioritizing tactical fit over individual talent in 2026.
Sportsnet: FIFA World Cup all-snubs squad: A starting lineup of players left out of tournament
- Source for: Comparison of USMNT snubs to other major global omissions like England and Brazil.