With many USMNT regulars missing, opportunity knocks for reserves vs. Canada. Moments of change often bring new chances, and this holds true for players on the periphery of the U.S. men’s national team.
Star winger Christian Pulisic, who serves as captain, will likely maintain his pivotal role when Mauricio Pochettino is finally introduced as the program’s new head coach. However, Pulisic and other mainstays like midfielder Weston McKennie, left back Antonee “Jedi” Robinson, and forward Tim Weah are exceptions. With the 2026 World Cup co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico just around the corner, the competition for starting spots is heating up.
A wealth of candidates is eager to fill the gaps across the field, especially in the midfield. This month presents the biggest opportunity, as all three starters from the recent Copa América—Tyler Adams, McKennie, and Gio Reyna—are absent.
Aidan Morris, a versatile midfielder, expressed his excitement about integrating into the squad. Currently thriving at Middlesbrough in England’s second tier, he joined the club this summer after achieving success with the Columbus Crew, where he won two MLS Cup titles.
Yunus Musah and Johnny Cardoso, who were mainly used as substitutes during the Copa under former coach Gregg Berhalter, are likely to step up against Canada. With Adams and McKennie unavailable, Morris could join them in the starting lineup.
“Whether those two guys are here or not, I hope to get an opportunity in the future,” Morris, 22, shared with reporters. “I’m focused on being the best version of myself.”
Mark McKenzie, a 25-year-old center back, was a regular call-up under Berhalter but has seen limited action for the national team since his debut four years ago. He was not selected for the 2022 World Cup roster.
Recently, McKenzie made a significant move from Belgian club Genk to Toulouse in France. He hopes that competing in Ligue 1, a league Pochettino led to victory in 2022 with Paris Saint-Germain, will solidify his place in the USMNT’s starting XI. “After three years in Belgium, I felt it was time for a new challenge,” he remarked. “Joining Toulouse represents a step up for me.”
Meanwhile, interim coach Varas faces the challenge of evaluating new options while achieving results. The upcoming matches, including one against New Zealand, may be friendly, but the pressure is palpable after the USMNT’s disappointing group stage exit from the Copa in July, which led to Berhalter’s departure.
“Winning is essential,” Varas stated during the pre-match press conference. “The Copa América performance was not acceptable.”
Finding the right balance is crucial. Varas emphasized that it’s straightforward: players must earn their opportunities. “If they don’t prove themselves, they won’t simply be handed a spot,” he noted.
“This is the men’s national team, the highest level of soccer in our country,” Varas continued. “The key is to give players a fair chance to compete and show what they can do. That’s what they all want—transparency and a fair shot. Ultimately, it’s up to them to seize the moment.”
For these September friendlies under an interim coach, the stakes are higher than they might seem at first glance.
“Ultimately, it’s a chance to represent your country,” McKenzie reflected. “Each opportunity to do that is something you don’t take lightly.”
