USMNT World Cup full roster: Alejandro Zendejas is in, Tanner Tessmann misses out
The Guardian • • sports
Key Points:
- Alejandro Zendejas has been named to the USMNT's 26-man roster for the 2026 World Cup, while Lyon midfielder Tanner Tessmann and Real Salt Lake’s Diego Luna were omitted despite their strong performances.
- Gio Reyna, despite limited club minutes and past controversies, was selected by coach Mauricio Pochettino, who values his talent regardless of recent form.
- Sebastian Berhalter, son of former US coach Gregg Berhalter, earned a spot on the roster due to his impressive development and set-piece abilities with Vancouver Whitecaps.
- The roster features a defensive-heavy lineup with 10 defenders and only four central or defensive midfielders, reflecting Pochettino’s tactical preferences.
- The USMNT will finalize the roster officially on June 1 and play final friendlies against Senegal and Germany before the World Cup begins.