The 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup will serve as a major opportunity for several United States men’s national team players to prove themselves to head coach Mauricio Pochettino.

Big stars will miss the tournament including Weston McKennie, Timothy Weah and Gio Reyna due to the Club World Cup. Christian Pulisic, Antonee Robinson and Yunus Musah will also skip the tournament due to rest.

This presents the chance for several fringe players to make a name for themselves and show why they should be considered for the 2026 World Cup roster.

A 27-man pre-Gold Cup roster has been released featuring 16 players from Major League Soccer. Here are five players who could make a case for being on the World Cup roster if they have a solid Gold Cup.

Five USMNT players who need a great showing at the Gold Cup

See Full Page