Christian Pulisic Returns, But 5 Key Players Missing- USMNT Announce Roster For September Friendlies

Despite a controversial summer, Mauricio Pochettino calls up Christian Pulisic, who missed the Gold Cup but returns to the squad for the games against South Korea and Japan.

The list includes players from the MLS and Europe, but big names are missing for the September international break. Some big stars who are currently missing in the roster play in Europe, and it has caused surprise among some USMNT fans.

Who is Missing in the Latest USMNT Roster?

Five key players that are missing in the USMNT roster for the friendlies against South Korea and Japan are Ricardo Pepi, Weston McKennie, Johnny Cardoso, Antonee Robinson, and Folarin Balogun.

All five players have played at the start of the new season with their respective clubs. Out of all five players missing, Balogun started and played the full match with his club, AS Monaco, at the start of the new season.

Cardoso also started in his first match with Atletico Madrid but was subbed off at halftime. McKennie (Juventus), Robinson (Fulham), and Pepi (PSV) featured minutes after starting their respective matches with their clubs on the bench.

Matt Turner Not Called Up for USMNT vs South Korea and Japan

Another name that did not appear in the roster that surprised many is Matt Turner of the New England Revolution. The American goalkeeper was the top choice keeper over the last few years, but in the 2025 Gold Cup, his place in the squad became less important.

Turner played one game in the Gold Cup, as Matt Freese was Pochettino's preferred choice as the main goalkeeper. Freese returns to the USMNT for the upcoming friendlies, but not Turner.

Turner has impressed wth the New England Revolution since his return this summer. Turner has already kept a clean sheet and conceded three goals in three games with the New England Revolution.

He featured in New England's 2-0 win over DC United, in the 2-0 loss against LAFC, and in the 2-1 win over Columbus Crew.