Three key takeaways from the USMNT's Nations League squad

While much of this lineup looks familiar, a few eye-catching surprises are hidden within the squad. Here are our big takeaways from Berhalter's championship-defending squad:

1. The squad looks weak on the left side, and the player who could change that was left at home

Sergiño Dest has (rightfully) claimed the rangy right-back role within the USMNT, but the left-back position has often shifted during Berhalter's tenure. Fulham defender Antonee Robinson has done the job in previous matches. Still, he plays much better in a centralized defensive role — particularly when he partners with his club teammate Tim Ream. Kristoffer Lund is the only pure left-back in this USMNT squad, and he's similarly defense-minded and less likely to break down the wing. This begs the question: why not call Kevin Paredes? 

Paredes is a regular starter for German club VfL Wolfsburg. He's fast, physical and full of potential, and this Nations League cycle could've been his breakout moment. We're not sure what Berhalter was thinking when he left him out.

2. Tyler Adams will play a key role in the USMNT in the future, but his call-up might be wishful thinking

Poor Tyler Adams. After captaining the USMNT through the 2022 World Cup and earning global plaudits for his maturity, he injured his hamstring and missed nearly a full season of play. The 25-year-old midfielder makes his grand return to this USMNT squad.

While we're happy to see him back and can't wait until he returns to full fitness, this call-up feels premature. Adams has yet to retake the field with his club team and is not ready to compete at CONCACAF's highest level. If Berhalter included Adams to see where he is in his recovery journey, that makes sense — but honestly, it could've been an email. Giving a precious roster space to a player unlikely to contribute feels like a wasted opportunity for the team.

3. Out with Vazquez, in with Sargent

Brandon Vazquez, star of the Supporters Shield-winning FC Cincinnati team of 2023, left MLS for Mexico this winter. While Cincy fans still remember Vazquez — he scored against his old club in the CONCACAF Champions Cup just last week — Berhalter appears to have wiped him from their memory. Despite performing well in the Liga MX Clausura, he's absent from this lineup.

Coming hot to replace Vazquez is Josh Sargent, the dependable young striker competing in the Championship. He's scored 12 goals in 17 games for Norwich City and appears to have entered a rich vein of form. The USMNT has always struggled to select its best striker — Folarin Balogun, Tim Weah, Haji Wright, Ricardo Pepi and Jesus Ferreira have all been part of the conversation — but Sargent's fitness and consistency could push him ahead of the pack.

The USMNT takes on Jamaica in the Nations League semifinal on Thursday, March 21.