USMNT stock watch indicates that players like Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie, Tim Weah, and the promising 18-year-old Cole Campbell are trending upward as November approaches. This month marks another FIFA window, presenting new opportunities for the U.S. men’s national team under the guidance of coach Mauricio Pochettino.
Pochettino’s initial camp earlier this month had its ups and downs. With several key USMNT starters absent, the team managed to secure a 2-0 victory against Panama in Texas but faced a 2-0 defeat to Mexico south of the border.
Looking ahead, some players who missed the October matches are expected to return for the upcoming two-leg Concacaf Nations League quarterfinals against Jamaica. Notable returnees include forward Tim Weah, who recently scored in Juventus’ thrilling 4-4 draw against Inter Milan, and Tyler Adams, the 2022 World Cup captain, who made his first Premier League appearance of the season for Bournemouth after recovering from back surgery.
Here’s a snapshot of the player pool as Pochettino prepares for his second camp with the USMNT.
Strikers
Ricardo Pepi is making waves in the Netherlands, netting four goals in his last four matches for PSV Eindhoven, including a standout performance with a brace last Saturday. This marks his second Eredivisie start in that span, showcasing his development this season.
Folarin Balogun has returned to training with Monaco and could make a quicker-than-expected return from a shoulder injury that was initially projected to keep him out until mid-December. He was in excellent form before his injury, scoring in three consecutive matches.
In Balogun’s absence, Josh Sargent had the chance to shine but struggled to make an impact in September’s games. Despite scoring four goals in 12 matches for Norwich City in the Championship, Sargent has yet to find the net in 15 appearances for the national team since 2019.
Haji Wright, who played as a center forward and left winger, made his mark by assisting Pepi’s goal against Panama. He has also been scoring consistently for Coventry City in the Championship.
Brandon Vazquez emerged as a standout in Pochettino’s first window, stepping up after Balogun’s injury and proving to be a key threat in Guadalajara. His performance serves as a reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in soccer. Meanwhile, Jordan Pefok of Union Berlin remains on the coaching staff’s radar due to his regular appearances in the Bundesliga.
Wingers
Tim Weah scored his second goal of the Serie A season for Juventus at a pivotal moment, with USMNT assistant coach Jesus Perez observing him and Weston McKennie face off against the defending champions.
In Germany, 18-year-old Cole Campbell is making headlines after breaking into the first team at Borussia Dortmund. He played crucial minutes in recent matches, demonstrating his potential at a young age. Notably, U.S. stars Christian Pulisic and Gio Reyna also debuted at Dortmund when they were 17.
Pulisic, although starting on the bench for AC Milan against Napoli, was called upon in the second half and remains the team’s leading scorer this season, with seven goals across Serie A and Champions League matches.
Brenden Aaronson faced challenges in the October window but quickly returned to Leeds’ starting lineup shortly after his stint with the national team. His contributions are helping Leeds push for a playoff spot in the Premier League.
Alex Zendejas, who was initially left out of the October squad, made an impressive impact after subbing in against Mexico, scoring for Club América shortly after his return.
Midfielders
The competition among midfielders is heating up. Adams’ anticipated return is promising, but given his recent injury history, it may be wise for Pochettino to hold him back until the full squad gathers in March.
McKennie is finding his stride, as evidenced by his assist against Inter Milan, signaling his readiness to contribute more.
Yunus Musah has been primarily utilized off the bench for AC Milan, but when given the opportunity, he has shown his capabilities, logging significant minutes in Serie A and Champions League matches.
Johnny Cardoso earned man-of-the-match honors in Real Betis’ recent victory over Atlético Madrid, showcasing his growth and importance to the team.
Tanner Tessman has started two consecutive matches for Lyon, catching the attention of USMNT scouts during their recent Europa League encounter.
Fullbacks
Antonee “Jedi” Robinson is solidifying his reputation as a potential big-money transfer target, having played every minute for Fulham since the season began.
Joe Scally is enjoying a breakout season with Borussia Mönchengladbach, establishing himself as the backup right back while also demonstrating versatility by filling in on the left.
With injuries to Kevin Paredes and Caleb Wiley, Kristoffer Lund stepped in as the only other fullback during October matches. Richie Ledezma is also a player to watch, despite limited appearances for PSV.
Center backs
Chris Richards remains sidelined due to a hamstring injury, which has kept him out of action for Crystal Palace. Tim Ream, now 37, faces questions about his longevity as he prepares for the 2026 World Cup.
Mark McKenzie stepped up in Richards’ absence and performed admirably against Panama. His efforts were noted by USMNT scouts during Toulouse’s recent match.
Cameron Carter-Vickers is poised for a return after missing the October window and recovering from an injury. He made a brief appearance in Celtic’s recent victory.
In MLS, Miles Robinson and FC Cincinnati had a successful playoff debut, while Walker Zimmermann’s Nashville did not qualify for postseason play.
Goalkeepers
Matt Turner, the long-time U.S. number one, started both October friendlies and is expected to be the go-to goalkeeper in the upcoming Nations League matches, despite being a backup at Crystal Palace.
Pochettino is committed to giving Turner and other players with limited club minutes a chance to prove themselves or find new opportunities. This includes Ethan Horvath, who has not seen action with Cardiff City since August.
Patrick Schulte and Zack Steffen may also return next month, as both have the opportunity to impress during the USMNT’s January camp, which will lead to exhibitions in early 2025.
