Christian Pulisic, Folarin Balogun return to USMNT roster for Nations League

Key Points:

• Mauricio Pochettino has named a 25-man US roster for the Concacaf Nations League quarter-finals against Haiti, recalling key players Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, and Folarin Balogun, with only two potential debutants this window.
• The two-leg series marks the US's first competitive matches since their World Cup exit, with Haiti hosting their home leg in Miami due to security concerns in Port-au-Prince, and the return leg in Cincinnati.
• The squad features a mix of experienced and emerging defenders, midfielders, and forwards, including newcomers Reed Baker-Whiting and Santiago Castañeda, while goalkeeper selections remain open amid ongoing competition.
• Pochettino praised forward Julian Hall for his commitment and performances, while Ricardo Pepi was left out due to fitness concerns despite recent club form, with the coach emphasizing a balanced approach to player readiness.
• The US team enters the Nations League as favorites, arriving in better form and health than rivals Mexico and Canada, aiming to progress with a blend of established stars and promising talents.