Cavan Sullivan USMNT Roster: Pulisic Out in Youth Movement 2026

Cavan Sullivan USMNT roster inclusion headlines Mauricio Pochettino’s latest 28-man squad for the September/October window, signaling a bold youth movement. The 16-year-old Philadelphia Union phenom is one of 13 players who could debut for the national team in the coming weeks, while Christian Pulisic misses out after a slow start at Milan.

Pochettino’s Youth Movement: Cavan Sullivan Leads 13 Potential Debutants

It was reasonable to expect that Pochettino’s first United States squad after this summer’s World Cup would turn the page for a new cycle. Instead, given the youthfulness of his selections, even a fast-forward reference feels too dated. Sullivan, at just 16, is poised to become the fourth-youngest player to represent the US, a record still held by Freddy Adu.

The squad features a remarkable 13 players who could earn their first cap, underscoring Pochettino’s commitment to building for the future. Four friendlies across the country will provide ample opportunity for these newcomers to impress.

Key Omissions: Pulisic, McKennie, and Balogun Left Out

Several members of the World Cup squad have been omitted to make way for the youth movement. Christian Pulisic misses out after a slow start to his season with Milan, where he has been a bench option for Ruben Amorim. Weston McKennie is also absent, having missed most of Juventus’s young season with muscle fatigue.

Folarin Balogun misses out too, probably due to a lack of minutes after his failed transfer to Everton. In total, nine selections enter this window with at least 30 senior caps: defenders Chris Richards, Miles Robinson, Antonee Robinson and Sergiño Dest; midfielders Tyler Adams, Yunus Musah, Malik Tillman and Gio Reyna; and striker Ricardo Pepi.

Experience vs. Youth: A Roster Breakdown

Eight of those experienced players were part of the World Cup squad, providing a spine of continuity. However, the emphasis is clearly on blooding new talent. The table below compares the experience levels within the current squad.

What This Means for the USMNT’s Future

Pochettino’s selection sends a clear message: performances at club level matter, and no one’s spot is guaranteed. The omission of Pulisic, McKennie, and Balogun highlights a meritocratic approach. Meanwhile, the inclusion of Sullivan and others signals a proactive rebuild.

With four friendlies on home soil, fans will get a firsthand look at the next generation. The window could set the tone for the 2026 World Cup cycle and beyond.

• Cavan Sullivan could become the fourth-youngest USMNT debutant.
• 13 players are in line for their first cap.
• Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, and Folarin Balogun are notable absentees.
• Nine veterans with 30+ caps provide experience.

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