Pochettino's US Squad Mixes Experience with Young Players

The United States Men's National Team will face Haiti in the Concacaf Nations League quarterfinals on November 14 and November 17. While some regular players rested during the September and October international window, Pochettino had the chance to look at a younger group. Now players such as Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie and Folarin Balogun have returned to the squad.

Young players such as Cavan Sullivan and Julian Hall will get competitive match experience in the Nations League this time as well. Miles Robinson, Johnny Cardoso and Ricardo Pepi have recently been dealing with injuries. Young players have been called up to fill the positions of Tim Weah and Yunus Musah. Pochettino confirmed that Pepi and Balogun are not yet in full form. Justin Ellis and Hall will also be given a chance to win a place in the lineup against Haiti.

The squad also includes players who have not previously worn the senior national team shirt. Reed Baker-Whiting is waiting for his first cap. Paderborn midfielder Santiago Castañeda was called up after his strong performances in the Bundesliga. Castañeda is also eligible to represent Colombia. Pochettino said he values balance and wants to try new game patterns. A squad geared toward attack is expected, but how the defense will be organized is a point of curiosity.

Julian Hall has scored 13 goals in MLS and has three goals for the national team. Pulisic also signed a new contract with AC Milan and scored two goals in his club's last three matches. Balogun, meanwhile, is finding it hard to earn a place in Monaco's starting XI.