Pochettino Unveils USMNT 2026 World Cup Squad, Sparking Midfield Depth Debate

USMNT boss Mauricio Pochettino announced a 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup, highlighted by Gio Reyna and Alejandro Zendejas while Tanner Tessmann was inexplicably left out, prompting debate over midfield depth and how the team will balance defense and attack. The piece also delves into penalty-taker options, potential starting XI scenarios (including a Paraguay opener), and realistic knockout-stage expectations ranging from a Round of 16 floor to a possible quarterfinal or beyond if form and cohesion align.