Okay, going into the first camp who are my starters for 2030? I hope to be here to see how close I got. I assume Poch sticks with a 4-2-3-1/3-2-4-1 (3-2-5) on offense and 4-4-2 on defense. And that Poch sticks himself. But let's call it a 4-2-3-1.

G: Kochen
LB: Miller (even though he is currently a winger)
LCB: Pierre (even though he is right footed)
RCB: Freeman (even though he is currently a RCB)
RB: Gozo (even though he is currently a winger)
LCM: McKennie
RCM: Tillman
ACM: Ellis
LW: Pulisic
Str: Balogun
RW: Sullivan
Subs who play: Freese (?), A. Robinson, Dest, Cardoso, Musah, Mehmeti, Reyna, Albert, Gozo
Subs who don't play: who cares
Interesting players who don't play and may or may not be called: guys born in 2010 or later, Habroune, Tsakiris, Raines, Cremaschi (nice player went from Miami to Italy, a midfielder or winger), Paxten Aaronson (better than his brother but less athletic)

This team has no players who play who are scrubs and has the best top talent of any USMNT. I think they go to the final 8 and have a shot at the final 4 depending on the scheduling. Spain, France, and Portugal are out of their league, but I think they can play with anyone else.

More notes from today (Sun. 9/20):

Yep, my big takeaway from the (otherwise great) Atletico vs Real Madrid Derby is that Johnny Cardoso started for Atletico and played the whole match in a winning effort against a good team. Cardoso looks to be fully back from injury, and though he was left off this USMNT camp for precautionary reasons (otherwise should have been there instead of Berhalter probably), he should be in the November camp for the CONCACAF Nations League matches.

Similarly, Christian Pulisic, though left out of the Sept/Oct USMNT camp, started for AC Milan in their 3-0 win over Lecce and scored a brilliant opening goal (great run, great finish), playing 69 minutes. He too seems back from injury, though in general, I like Pulisic as an opener, not a closer. Bring him into the November camp for USMNT, but he is a player who should give it his all, then be subbed out sometime in the second half. Also for AC Milan, Yunus Musuh subbed in for the last 15 minutes or so, but he's gotten plenty of starts and minutes which is great - can't wait to see what he does in this USMNT camp.

Also similarly, Weston Mckennie started and played the first 86 minutes in Juventus 2-0 win over Atalanta. He too is back from injury and though not in this USMNT camp, should be in the November competitive camp.

I've actually been following 21yo Ben Cremaschi at Parma in the Serie A as well, but he doesn't seem to get any playing time. Made the bench once more in Parma's 2-1 win over Genoa.

Alex Freeman started and played the whole match in Villareal's 3-1 win over Levante. The Levante goal was not his fault and he seemed active. It's the perfect place for the 22yo Right or Center Back - mid-table La Liga club, getting plenty of playing time.

In the Premier League, Antonee Robinson and Chris Richards both started and played the entire match for Fulham and Crystal Palace respectively in a 1-1 draw against Man U and 0-0 draw against Leeds respectively. Not much else to note except good to see them both getting plenty of minutes. Not giving up a goal finally is good for Richards! No sign of Gozo, though, not even on Palace's bench.

Tyler Adams also started and played 88 minutes in Bournemouth's 1-0 loss to Liverpool. It is nice to imagine a world in which Adams is no longer one of the USMNT's top 3 or 4 holding midfielders, let alone a starter. I would frankly start Cardoso or Musuh over Adams in the November break.

In the Bundesliga, Cole Campbell played 87 minutes and actually looked decent, I thought in Elversberg's 0-0 draw at Schalke. His team is doing reasonably well for being just-promoted. The question is, can he make good decisions and be anything more than a speedy white kid (and the face of Black America)? Looking forward to seeing what he can do in camp.

Also in the Bundesliga, 21yo Santiago Castaneda played the whole match and scored the first goal in Paderborn's 3-1 win over Hoffenheim, but I checked, and the goal went in off a deflection and was nothing impressive.

Malik Tillman made the bench and did not play in Bayern Leverkusen's 2-0 win over Leipzig. He really has not been playing well for his club and seems to be losing the faith of his manager. Hopefully he plays better for country (as he did in the World Cup).

Tim Weah got a red card in Marseille's 2-1 loss to PSG. Weah gonna Weah.

And last, in bad news for the USMNT camp with strikers Balogun and Haji Wright already not included due to injury recovery, Ricardo Pepi started for PSV Eindhoven in their 3-2 loss in the Dutch Eredivisie today but only played 10 minutes before being injured. So Pepi is likely out for the USMNT camp(?!). Dest did play the whole match, but the problem is at striker.

sluggo said:

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Okay, going into the first camp who are my starters for 2030? I hope to be here to see how close I got. I assume Poch sticks with a 4-2-3-1/3-2-4-1 (3-2-5) on offense and 4-4-2 on defense. And that Poch sticks himself. But let's call it a 4-2-3-1.

G: Kochen
LB: Miller (even though he is currently a winger)
LCB: Pierre (even though he is right footed)
RCB: Freeman (even though he is currently a RCB)
RB: Gozo (even though he is currently a winger)
LCM: McKennie
RCM: Tillman
ACM: Ellis
LW: Pulisic
Str: Balogun
RW: Sullivan
Subs who play: Freese (?), A. Robinson, Dest, Cardoso, Musah, Mehmeti, Reyna, Albert, Gozo
Subs who don't play: who cares
Interesting players who don't play and may or may not be called: guys born in 2010 or later, Habroune, Tsakiris, Raines, Cremaschi (nice player went from Miami to Italy, a midfielder or winger), Paxten Aaronson (better than his brother but less athletic)

This team has no players who play who are scrubs and has the best top talent of any USMNT. I think they go to the final 8 and have a shot at the final 4 depending on the scheduling. Spain, France, and Portugal are out of their league, but I think they can play with anyone else.

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Interesting stuff, sluggo. Who the heck knows what things will look like in 2030. I'm not going to come up with a list that far out. Why do it myself when I can sit back and nitpick yours? =)

Kidding - I mostly agree. I especially like the idea of Justin Ellis at the central "10", though I think he may still be a backup/second-half sub in 2030, and McKennie or Tillman may start at that spot, with Cardoso or Musuh backfilling the central defensive midfield spot that they vacate in your lineup above.

I should have mentioned in my previous post (will edit now)! Ricardo Pepi got injured for PSV today! So the USMNT camp is down to two "strikers" in Ellis and Julian Hall. What do you think they should do in these friendlies? Start Ellis (or Reyna? Gozo?) as a "False 9"? Have to come up with options, because with 4 friendlies so close together, you can't start the same player in all 4 matches.

Edited to add: ugh... Pochettino added Damion Downs to replace Pepi. I mean, does Downs even start for St. Louis in the MLS? Good grief.

Anyway, your post was not about this camp, but about 2030.

My other disagreements are in the backline. I have been the one promoting Peyton Miller, but I think the idea that he will start over Antonee Robinson in 2030 is a bridge too far to predict as a likely outcome (possible, but not likely). I see Miller as providing depth at that position for this cycle. Miller (perhaps like Robinson at his age), would have to improve a ton to be better than Jedi by 2030, and/or Jedi would have to seriously regress. Not that ARob is amazing, but he's a legit Premier League level player and may still be by 2030.

Similarly, I just don't see it in Gozo yet. Could that change by 2030? Maybe, but I'm not counting on it. In a 4-2-3-1, I think the USMNT will likely still have to start Richards and Pierre at center back and Freeman at right back (with Jedi at left back), and play Miller and Gozo off the bench. Or in a 3-4-2-1 (or 5-2-2-1), start ARob and Dest as wing-backs (with Miller/Gozo backups) and Pierre/Richards/Freeman as the 3 center backs (with Trusty and another to be named later as backup).

I'm surprised that you list Richards neither as a starter, nor as a sub who plays. He's going through a bad stretch right now, but he has some track record of being a Premier League-level player and seems decently likely to get back to that as he enters the prime of his career (age-wise).

Finally, as for goalie, sure it could be Kochen. Though I'm getting the feeling he's not very good either, except maybe playing the ball with his feet. But who else we got? The USMNT needs to find some Hail Mary for our goalie situation. Perhaps the longshot of a one-time transfer for Japan's second best goalie (behind the elite Suzuki): Brandon Taishi Nozawa, would instantly become USMNT's GK#1.

A few things. I forgot Richards as a backup. The US really plays three center backs and one wing back. I think Miller will replace Robinson at wingback due to the latter's age and injuries. Let's put Richards at left center back, Pierre at center center back. and Freeman at right center back like in 2026. Make Gozo a reserve winger.

I agree it looks like Kochen is not very good. Neither is anyone else. Hopefully someone will emerge.

Ellis is a problem. He is a striker in a dual striker system or a #10 but the USMNT does not have that position. If he is a winger there is lots of competition and he is not fast. As a lone striker he will get beat up too much. Hall plays just like Balogun so he fits better. I don't know the solution. Ellis is tremendous, my esteem goes up each week.

Castaneda is starting to get some notice from the nerds. Good scouting OK. Supposedly Colombia is thinking about him, not sure if he is on our radar.

The U20s are going to be back in action. Unfortunately for them the best players have graduated from this level and will play on the Olympic team, the USMNT, or both. I think Oyharabal and maybe Cupps have a future for a higher level national team, but for most of these guys, this is the end. Some people like Dills, but I have never seen him play.

https://www.ussoccercollective.com/us-youth-national-teams/u20-usynt-september-2026-roster-analysis

sluggo said:

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The U20s are going to be back in action. Unfortunately for them the best players have graduated from this level and will play on the Olympic team, the USMNT, or both. I think Oyharabal and maybe Cupps have a future for a higher level national team, but for most of these guys, this is the end. Some people like Dills, but I have never seen him play.

https://www.ussoccercollective.com/us-youth-national-teams/u20-usynt-september-2026-roster-analysis

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Here is a brutal review of the players chosen. I agree with the idea that players should be chosen for upside, not for winning these games. But my knowledge is of the top guys, not the stragglers.

This might come off mean, but I think it’s needed to prove that these selections are ridiculous.

Kike Martinez has no real upside. He’s safe, reliable, and doesn’t make mistakes without doing much positive. Segares ideal player type to win youth games. Torquato is exceptionally… https://t.co/pSkWwQAcmM

— USMNTProspects (@ProspectsUsmnt) September 22, 2026

sluggo said:

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The U20s are going to be back in action. Unfortunately for them the best players have graduated from this level and will play on the Olympic team, the USMNT, or both. I think Oyharabal and maybe Cupps have a future for a higher level national team, but for most of these guys, this is the end. Some people like Dills, but I have never seen him play.

https://www.ussoccercollective.com/us-youth-national-teams/u20-usynt-september-2026-roster-analysis

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Yeah, this is a weak roster (have not yet read the review/analysis on the site you linked). Even with all the senior USMNT call-ups I guess being "too good" for this team, I am disappointed at the following omissions.

Center Back Andrei Chirila: has started plenty for FC Cincinnati, and actually was the better center back for them in their 5-0 beatdown to the Philadelphia Union, and even stopped Sullivan a couple times. The one goal Chirila was directly responsible for was when he was forced to guard two forwards because his fellow center back at Cincinnati, Miles Robinson, was ball-watching.

Fullback or Midfielder: Landon Emenalo, currently on loan by Chelsea to Glasgow Celtic in the Scottish league (same team as Auston Trusty)... multiple nat (US, Nigeria, maybe England)... reportedly technical with high upside.

Fullback: Matthew Dos Santos (Red Bull New York)

I would say also Fullback or Midfielder Javaun Mussenden who played in the U-20 WC qualifying and you (sluggo) pointed out playing being decently.

Players I am interested in watching who are on the roster:
- Center Back Christopher Cupps (Greenock Morton in Scottish Premier League, on loan from Chicago Fire): thought he was solid in the U-20 WC qualifying
- Midfielders Xanti Oyharabal (Athletic Bilbao) and Cooper Sanchez (Atlanta): same
- Winger Jaidyn Contreras (Dallas): I thought the was... not solid, but... interesting and had some juice in the U-20 WC qualifying
- (Newly added) midfielders Ervin Torres and Snyder Brunell - interesting 2028 U-23 Olympic team prospects from Austin and Seattle respectively in the MLS.
- Left Back Pedro Guimaraes (Eintracht Frankfurt II): The youtubers I listen to seem interested in him.

Too bad that winger Nimfasha Berchimas is out, probably still due to the injury he suffered during U-20 WC qualifying. Maybe he'll be back by the actual U-20 WC next year.

Would love for guys like Mathis Albert and Zavier Gozo who are not getting much playing time at Dortmund and Crystal Palace to be given a shot to play in the U-20 WC too. Hell, throw in Julian Hall, even though he plays plenty for RBNY but should only be on the senior USMNT due to lack of healthy strikers.

sluggo said:

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Castaneda is starting to get some notice from the nerds. Good scouting OK. Supposedly Colombia is thinking about him, not sure if he is on our radar.

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Yeah, I am following him for Paderborn, who just got a win in the Bundesliga, but am not sure about him. He does not seem highly skilled or anything, but a tall guy and decent athlete. Just past the age where he could qualify for the 2028 U-23 Olympic team. I wonder if he can play center back. =)

OneKeg said:

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sluggo said:

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The U20s are going to be back in action. Unfortunately for them the best players have graduated from this level and will play on the Olympic team, the USMNT, or both. I think Oyharabal and maybe Cupps have a future for a higher level national team, but for most of these guys, this is the end. Some people like Dills, but I have never seen him play.

https://www.ussoccercollective.com/us-youth-national-teams/u20-usynt-september-2026-roster-analysis

---

Yeah, this is a weak roster (have not yet read the review/analysis on the site you linked). Even with all the senior USMNT call-ups I guess being "too good" for this team, I am disappointed at the following omissions.

Center Back Andrei Chirila: has started plenty for FC Cincinnati, and actually was the better center back for them in their 5-0 beatdown to the Philadelphia Union, and even stopped Sullivan a couple times. The one goal Chirila was directly responsible for was when he was forced to guard two forwards because his fellow center back at Cincinnati, Miles Robinson, was ball-watching.

Fullback or Midfielder: Landon Emenalo, currently on loan by Chelsea to Glasgow Celtic in the Scottish league (same team as Auston Trusty)... multiple nat (US, Nigeria, maybe England)... reportedly technical with high upside.

Fullback: Matthew Dos Santos (Red Bull New York)

I would say also Fullback or Midfielder Javaun Mussenden who played in the U-20 WC qualifying and you (sluggo) pointed out playing being decently.

Players I am interested in watching who are on the roster:
- Center Back Christopher Cupps (Greenock Morton in Scottish Premier League, on loan from Chicago Fire): thought he was solid in the U-20 WC qualifying
- Midfielders Xanti Oyharabal (Athletic Bilbao) and Cooper Sanchez (Atlanta): same
- Winger Jaidyn Contreras (Dallas): I thought the was... not solid, but... interesting and had some juice in the U-20 WC qualifying
- (Newly added) midfielders Ervin Torres and Snyder Brunell - interesting 2028 U-23 Olympic team prospects from Austin and Seattle respectively in the MLS.
- Left Back Pedro Guimaraes (Eintracht Frankfurt II): The youtubers I listen to seem interested in him.

Too bad that winger Nimfasha Berchimas is out, probably still due to the injury he suffered during U-20 WC qualifying. Maybe he'll be back by the actual U-20 WC next year.

Would love for guys like Mathis Albert and Zavier Gozo who are not getting much playing time at Dortmund and Crystal Palace to be given a shot to play in the U-20 WC too. Hell, throw in Julian Hall, even though he plays plenty for RBNY but should only be on the senior USMNT due to lack of healthy strikers.

---

I accidentally erased my post so I will write a shorter one.
I have seen Chirila and think he is mediocre. But he deserves a chance.
Emenalo has played for England. Not sure if he is interested in us. Won't make the national team there.
I like Dos Santos as a possible Olympian. The Red Bulls might have wanted to hold him after losing mehmeti and Hall for a few weeks. Next year I think MLS will be aligned with the international calendar so this problem may go away.
The Revolution might need Mussenden to replace Miller, but if not, he should be there. His athleticism jumps off the screen. His soccer needs to improve.
I am impressed how you have jumped in. You are more current than I am.

Thanks sluggo.

My sources which I listen to, mostly at the gym or while on a hike:
- Tactical Manager YouTube channel (mainly the videos, but sometimes shorts and livestreams)
- 11 Yanks YouTube channel (mainly the videos, but sometimes shorts and livestreams)
- Scuffed Podcast (recommended by you)
- Diligently setting alerts for all USMNT prospects of interest and their teams on my phone's ESPN app.

Seems like US Soccer, in addition to the senior USMNT camp (with 4 friendly matches) and a U-20 camp (with 2 friendlies) is ALSO having a U-19 camp (with 2 friendlies) in Spain?

A couple of the names I had wondered about why they were missing from the U-20 roster do show up here, along with one I forgot about.

- Center back Andrew Chirila
- Outside back Matt Dos Santos
- (Had forgotten to mention in my last post) Midfielder Jude Terry

I don't get it. I don't think there is a separate U-19 World Cup like there's a U-20 World Cup. Why not just have one giant camp with all of them together and play split squad matches in multiple friendlies? They should all be candidates to play in next year's U-20 WC.

https://www.ussoccercollective.com/us-youth-national-teams/u19-usynt-september-2026-roster-analysis

OneKeg said:

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Seems like IS Soccer, in addition to the senior USMNT camp (with 4 friendly matches) and a U-20 camp (with 2 friendlies) is ALSO having a U-19 camp (with 2 friendlies) in Spain?

A couple of the names I had wondered about why they were missing from the U-20 roster do show up here, along with one I forgot about.

- Center back Andrew Chirila
- Outside back Matt Dos Santos
- (Had forgotten to mention in my last post) Midfielder Jude Terry

I don't get it. I don't think there is a separate U-19 World Cup like there's a U-20 World Cup. Why not just have one giant camp with all of them together and play split squad matches in multiple friendlies? They should all be candidates to play in next year's U-20 WC.

https://www.ussoccercollective.com/us-youth-national-teams/u19-usynt-september-2026-roster-analysis

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In the last few years the US has redone how it handles U20 and younger teams. There were teams that were destined to go to the U17 or U20 WC. And there was a U18 team that was somewhat for the transition between U17 and U20 because of the year difference in age cutoff. And maybe there was a U15 team to get players in the system.

Now there is a birth year team for every age from U15 to U20. And players can graduate above their age groups. For instance, Sullivan is an 09 but played the U17 WC with the 08s (as did Albert, Mehmeti basically has not played for the US because he wanted the Sullivan/Albert treatment and did not get it). Now the U17 WC is played every year (starting recently as some middle eastern state became permanent host), but the U20 WC is played every other year. So if you are on the U19 team when there is a U20 team, you are basically on a fake team, but if you play well enough, you may graduate to the U20 team. It does happen, players change fast at this age. I think Gozo is an example of going from U19 to U20.

tl;dr Chirila, Dos Santos and Terry are right now not considered good enough for the U20 team.

As this point, I think I have taught you everything I know about US Soccer.

sluggo said:

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OneKeg said:

---

Seems like IS Soccer, in addition to the senior USMNT camp (with 4 friendly matches) and a U-20 camp (with 2 friendlies) is ALSO having a U-19 camp (with 2 friendlies) in Spain?

A couple of the names I had wondered about why they were missing from the U-20 roster do show up here, along with one I forgot about.

- Center back Andrew Chirila
- Outside back Matt Dos Santos
- (Had forgotten to mention in my last post) Midfielder Jude Terry

I don't get it. I don't think there is a separate U-19 World Cup like there's a U-20 World Cup. Why not just have one giant camp with all of them together and play split squad matches in multiple friendlies? They should all be candidates to play in next year's U-20 WC.

https://www.ussoccercollective.com/us-youth-national-teams/u19-usynt-september-2026-roster-analysis

---

In the last few years the US has redone how it handles U20 and younger teams. There were teams that were destined to go to the U17 or U20 WC. And there was a U18 team that was somewhat for the transition between U17 and U20 because of the year difference in age cutoff. And maybe there was a U15 team to get players in the system.

Now there is a birth year team for every age from U15 to U20. And players can graduate above their age groups. For instance, Sullivan is an 09 but played the U17 WC with the 08s (as did Albert, Mehmeti basically has not played for the US because he wanted the Sullivan/Albert treatment and did not get it). Now the U17 WC is played every year (starting recently as some middle eastern state became permanent host), but the U20 WC is played every other year. So if you are on the U19 team when there is a U20 team, you are basically on a fake team, but if you play well enough, you may graduate to the U20 team. It does happen, players change fast at this age. I think Gozo is an example of going from U19 to U20.

tl;dr Chirila, Dos Santos and Terry are right now not considered good enough for the U20 team.

As this point, I think I have taught you everything I know about US Soccer.

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One commenter thinks the U19 team is better than the U20 team. I don't know, these are not players that matter, for the most part.

I’ll be honest, this team beats the U20s. I understand that most of the U20s are ‘07s and you want to keep them in the pool but when the World Cup comes around next year I really hope we see guys like Chirila, Dos Santos, Terry, Carrizo, Adams, Preston, and Wesseh get promoted. https://t.co/A6HMWrWPxg

— American Ultras Talk (@usmntaut) September 22, 2026

It is a good sign that the top development team in the world, or close to it, thinks Jakupovic is worth having. He is 17 and getting irregular minutes with the Union. Which makes sense, he has not played great for them. But he has the most potential of any US striker that I have ever seen. Which does not mean that much if you look at the history of US strikers. We poached Balogun, so I did not think of him as a youth. I guess the best one I saw previously was Altidore, but he was always up and down, which was the story of his career. Our best historically are McBride and Wynalda, but they are from a different era of coverage. Or Dempsey or Donovan if either is considered a striker. I did see Donovan play for the U17s. Dempsey was a late bloomer who went to college. As did McBride and Wynalda.

Sources: The Philadelphia Union turned down an offer from Borussia Dortmund for Malik Jakupovic during the most recent transfer window.

Jakupovic, 17, is a blue-chip prospect for both the Union and U.S. soccer. As a Homegrown player for Philadelphia, he is under contract through… pic.twitter.com/HeENZ1vl3N

— José Roberto Nuñez (@JoserNunez91) September 23, 2026

I think I understand your description of how the US youth national team structures have changed. But based on that, given how thin the US is on young, up-and-coming strikers, now that you bring up Jakupovic, it seems crazy not to play a decently high-ceiling striker like him up a level or two in the U-19 or U-20 camps.

Jakupovic should be a candidate for the U-20 WC next year if Justin Ellis and Julian Hall don't play in that event, as seems likely (unfortunately), and maybe even if those two do play as the third striker on the roster. The kid (Jakupovic) actually got a goal for the Philadelphia Union the other day. Not just in MLSNext where many of these other kids are.

Especially because Jakupovic is another dual nat, I think (Bosnia and Herzegovina). We need him playing on US youth teams as soon as possible and show him love.

OneKeg said:

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I think I understand your description of how the US youth national team structures have changed. But based on that, given how thin the US is on young, up-and-coming strikers, now that you bring up Jakupovic, it seems crazy not to play a decently high-ceiling striker like him up a level or two in the U-19 or U-20 camps.

Jakupovic should be a candidate for the U-20 WC next year if Justin Ellis and Julian Hall don't play in that event, as seems likely (unfortunately), and maybe even if those two do play as the third striker on the roster. The kid (Jakupovic) actually got a goal for the Philadelphia Union the other day. Not just in MLSNext where many of these other kids are.

Especially because Jakupovic is another dual nat, I think (Bosnia and Herzegovina). We need him playing on US youth teams as soon as possible and show him love.

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There is some tradeoff between earning a position and not losing a player to a foreign team. I do think the US sometimes favors the former too much over the latter.

Jakupovic is not as good right now as Ellis or Hall who are star MLS players. He did get a goal in a route, but I watch the Union most games, and he is not at the starting MLS level yet. There is also an argument about wanting a player to succeed. I think Jakupovic will play at the U17 WC. And possibly star.

Everyone knows who he is and how important he is and that he might decide to play for BH. I am sure there is a plan.

If you want to stress about a player, where is Tomo Allen? He is a 2007 6'4'' striker who played one year at Stanford and now plays for the Quakes II. The Quakes shmucky manager Bruce Arena does not play young players except rare exceptions like Tsakiris, who happens to be the son of a youth national team manager, Shaun Tsakiris. Allen is not there yet by any means, but he does have significant potential. He never gets called into anything including this U20 roster full of crap players.

Another thing to be annoyed with is MLS locking up players forever. He should not be allowed to be signed for more than a few years. It is crazy he is locked up until 30-31. But if you don't sign, you may be blackballed. MLS sucks.

Yeah if Jakupovic plays in the U-17 WC this year, then it all makes sense. I guess my point is that I think some of the kids on these U-19 and U-20 rosters are purely MLSNext and aren't even getting MLS minutes as Jakupovic has on occasion. Of course he's not at Ellis or Hall's level yet, but if I had to guess, those two won't be at the U-20 WC next year, regardless of my wishes to the contrary. So why not Jakupovic at striker for that eventual roster?

Just as an apples-to-apples comparison with the Philadelphia Union: you know who DID get a call-up to the U-19 camp? Center forward Theo Reed who has ONLY played at the MLSNext (Philadelphia II) club. So I guess my question is, why Reed and not Jakupovic? But I guess the U-17 WC for Jakupovic might answer that, as Reed is too old for that.

And yeah, sounds like Allen deserved a call-up to this U-20 camp and will for the U-20 WC too. Not like any of the strikers on these rosters are all that promising. Sucks to hear the MLS can tie these higher potential kids into crappy situations where they don't get a chance for so long. All so some second rate or past-their-prime veteran retread from whichever country can collect a MLS paycheck.

OneKeg said:

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Yeah if Jakupovic plays in the U-17 WC this year, then it all makes sense. I guess my point is that I think some of the kids on these U-19 and U-20 rosters are purely MLSNext and aren't even getting MLS minutes as Jakupovic has on occasion. Of course he's not at Ellis or Hall's level yet, but if I had to guess, those two won't be at the U-20 WC next year, regardless of my wishes to the contrary. So why not Jakupovic at striker for that eventual roster?

Just as an apples-to-apples comparison with the Philadelphia Union: you know who DID get a call-up to the U-19 camp? Center forward Theo Reed who has ONLY played at the MLSNext (Philadelphia II) club. So I guess my question is, why Reed and not Jakupovic? But I guess the U-17 WC for Jakupovic might answer that, as Reed is too old for that.

And yeah, sounds like Allen deserved a call-up to this U-20 camp and will for the U-20 WC too. Not like any of the strikers on these rosters are all that promising. Sucks to hear the MLS can tie these higher potential kids into crappy situations where they don't get a chance for so long. All so some second rate or past-their-prime veteran retread from whichever country can collect a MLS paycheck.

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I am sure Jakupovic will play in the U17 WC if he wants to. Not sure if BH qualified or how serious he is about them. All players use other suitors for leverage, it is how the game is played. It is quite possible that in 2027 he will play in the U20 WC. I noticed that Jakupovic did NOT get called for the U17 camp that is now. Maybe Reed got called because he does not matter, while Jakupovic will stay behind and get minutes with Sullivan gone. The Union may have asked US Soccer not to call him, or Jakupovic himself may have asked not to be called. Things are not always that straightforward, and I am just speculating.

Fair enough. Who knows what's going to happen with these young players. Just frustrating to not have our best out there at every level (including U-17 and U-20).

Also sucks that MLS has such leverage over the futures of young, high-ceiling prospects, often to their detriment.

OneKeg said:

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Fair enough. Who knows what's going to happen with these young players. Just frustrating to not have our best out there at every level (including U-17 and U-20).

Also sucks that MLS has such leverage over the futures of young, high-ceiling prospects, often to their detriment.

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If we played Sullivan, Albert, Mehmeti and Jakupovic at the U17 WC in November, we would have real possibilities. At U20 no one brings their best players, and we would be interesting but not competitive with the best. Lamine Yamal would be eligible for Spain.

The first time I saw Sullivan really dominate was the last year's U17 WC. You might want to look for highlights or games on youtube. The opposing fans got on him but he did not care. His mentality is as good as his skill. Our best players ever, Donovan and Pulisic, did not have the mentality to get to the very top. Donovan seems to have had a damaging upbringing and Pulisic wants to be one of the guys, not the guy. Donovan's father used to post too much on the internet when he was a teenager.

I do think we should bring only players that are very good now or have high ceilings. Players who have maxed out as journeymen should be left at home.

Yeah, I am not suggesting the US bring young players who are mainstays with the senior USMNT to the U-20. But one or two caps and participation in a couple camps should not disqualify them.

So let's say after this Sept/Oct camp and four friendlies, four of our teenagers catch on and become regular USMNT roster fixtures, including for the next, November competitive (CONCACAF Nations' League) camp. Let's just say it is Cavan Sullivan, Adri Mehmeti, Justin Ellis and Neil Pierre. Fine, leave those four out of the U-20. Similarly, Spain would leave Lamine Yamal and Cubarsi (both on Barca) out of their U-20 (am I forgetting any other great Spanish teenagers who are regulars for Spain's senior team? Nico Williams is too old).

But then there should then be no reason for the US not to bring Mathis Albert, Zavier Gozo, Julian Hall, Peyton Miller all to the U-20 WC. Sure, by the same token Spain and a few other countries could draw from their deeper pool of talent and still bring even better U-20 players, even without Yamal and Cubarsi for Spain. But that's the way it should be - Spain is the best. I tell you what, though: the US U-20 would struggle less with Mexico-level teams in this scenario, and the level of soccer would be better to watch.

I should add, it looks like Malik Jakupovic is on the U-18 camp roster:

https://www.ussoccercollective.com/us-youth-national-teams/u18-usynt-september-2026-roster-analysis

Must see game tomorrow at 130pm pacific on TNT and Peacock and other places. USMNT v Peru. Lots of guys make their debuts. It seems possible that Sullivan, Ellis, and Pierre could start, but who knows. There are four games over two weeks so we will see how Poch handles the newcomers. This is very exciting.

OneKeg said:

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I should add, it looks like Malik Jakupovic is on the U-18 camp roster:

https://www.ussoccercollective.com/us-youth-national-teams/u18-usynt-september-2026-roster-analysis

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It must mean they are listing age at the time the camp is held, not like FIFA, who does it by age on the first day of the year. This in the 09 birth year team that will go to the U17 WC in November. Note a few 10 birth year players are playing up.

I don't think this team will be very good because of the players they are missing.

OneKeg said:

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Yeah, I am not suggesting the US bring young players who are mainstays with the senior USMNT to the U-20. But one or two caps and participation in a couple camps should not disqualify them.

So let's say after this Sept/Oct camp and four friendlies, four of our teenagers catch on and become regular USMNT roster fixtures, including for the next, November competitive (CONCACAF Nations' League) camp. Let's just say it is Cavan Sullivan, Adri Mehmeti, Justin Ellis and Neil Pierre. Fine, leave those four out of the U-20. Similarly, Spain would leave Lamine Yamal and Cubarsi (both on Barca) out of their U-20 (am I forgetting any other great Spanish teenagers who are regulars for Spain's senior team? Nico Williams is too old).

But then there should then be no reason for the US not to bring Mathis Albert, Zavier Gozo, Julian Hall, Peyton Miller all to the U-20 WC. Sure, by the same token Spain and a few other countries could draw from their deeper pool of talent and still bring even better U-20 players, even without Yamal and Cubarsi for Spain. But that's the way it should be - Spain is the best. I tell you what, though: the US U-20 would struggle less with Mexico-level teams in this scenario, and the level of soccer would be better to watch.

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I think what you want will happen in some form. Some of the players with a cap or two who are not in the core will go to the U20WC. That is also if their team is okay losing them outside a FIFA window. Last one the Union did not let Paxten Aaronson play, and he was the best player on the U20 team. The one before Tim Weah played, and I think he had already gotten a cap or two, but he really wanted to play.

BTW, Barca has started four (4!) U20 eligible players at times this year. Yamal, Cubarsi, Bernal (replaced by Rodri but maybe the best young holding MF in the world) and Espart (skilled small player, maybe only like 5'6''). They have others who are 17 or 18 who I don't know. And there is more in Spain, the talent coming out of there is out of control. Barca bought Pedri from Las Palmas when he was like 18 after he failed a tryout with Madrid. He was probably only like 120 pounds at the time, but he is the most skilled player in the world, there is that.

Thanks for the great posts, sluggo. I just got home from watching the absolute abomination that was the Cal-Clemson game and needed that.

Honestly, the rivalry high school soccer game I attended beforehand (4pm) in the Presidio in San Francisco was much better despite finishing 0-0. My son's HS Bay and rival International HS, very good teams, both ranked in the top 5 in North Coast fall soccer rankings, and league rivals in a well-played defensive struggle with some near misses and very physical play. Undefeated Bay now has 7 wins and 2 ties in 9 games, 2-0-1 in conference. Bay curled a free kick inches wide in the final seconds of this one.

Really looking forward to watching US vs Peru tomorrow. Can't remember ever being anywhere close to this interested in a friendly match. Hopefully we see a couple of the young guns. I could see Cavan Sullivan, at least, starting with Pulisic, McKennie and Balogun all held out of this camp as they recover from injury.

OneKeg said:

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Thanks for the great posts, sluggo. I just got home from watching the absolute abomination that was the Cal-Clemson game and needed that.

Honestly, the rivalry high school soccer game I attended beforehand (4pm) in the Presidio in San Francisco was much better despite finishing 0-0. My son's HS Bay and rival International HS, very good teams, both ranked in the top 5 in North Coast fall soccer rankings, and league rivals in a well-played defensive struggle with some near misses and very physical play. Undefeated Bay now has 7 wins and 2 ties in 9 games, 2-0-1 in conference. Bay curled a free kick inches wide in the final seconds of this one.

Really looking forward to watching US vs Peru tomorrow. Can't remember ever being anywhere close to this interested in a friendly match. Hopefully we see a couple of the young guns. I could see Cavan Sullivan, at least, starting with Pulisic, McKennie and Balogun all held out of this camp as they recover from injury.

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I went too. But is was for the last time until some heads roll. The current staff is fan abuse.

Sounds like a fun soccer game. I miss my soccer dad days. I have to stay healthy for the future grandchildren.

Yes, I think Sullivan could start. Or Ellis.

sluggo said:

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OneKeg said:

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Thanks for the great posts, sluggo. I just got home from watching the absolute abomination that was the Cal-Clemson game and needed that.

Honestly, the rivalry high school soccer game I attended beforehand (4pm) in the Presidio in San Francisco was much better despite finishing 0-0. My son's HS Bay and rival International HS, very good teams, both ranked in the top 5 in North Coast fall soccer rankings, and league rivals in a well-played defensive struggle with some near misses and very physical play. Undefeated Bay now has 7 wins and 2 ties in 9 games, 2-0-1 in conference. Bay curled a free kick inches wide in the final seconds of this one.

Really looking forward to watching US vs Peru tomorrow. Can't remember ever being anywhere close to this interested in a friendly match. Hopefully we see a couple of the young guns. I could see Cavan Sullivan, at least, starting with Pulisic, McKennie and Balogun all held out of this camp as they recover from injury.

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I went too. But is was for the last time until some heads roll. The current staff is fan abuse.

Sounds like a fun soccer game. I miss my soccer dad days. I have to stay healthy for the future grandchildren.

Yes, I think Sullivan could start. Or Ellis.

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You have to go and support the team regardless if you live in the Bay, you can't choose or change your alma mater.

Only viable midseason solution is for Somerville to hand the keys to Rolo.

Good game ahead, Spain- at England in the Euro Nations.

I will send positive vibes through the TV until Somerville is gone. I am not going to give three extra hours to the game to have a bad time.

But let's get back to the off topic topic. I was worried that the USMNT was going to be stuck with final 16 talent. I think they new guys make it at least final 8 talent. That is exciting. Can't wait to see it in an hour.

I mostly agree with sluggo on Cal FB. I will still be at the games because in essence, I am one of the couple thousand abused spouses of Cal Football. I will even donate, and am going with friends to Cal-UNLV. Though if that was a solo trip, I would cancel - the friends part should be fun.

But it is not wrong to call out that what is happening with Cal Football coaching is negligent abuse. (Yes of course, my feelings as a Cal fan are not important compared to the actual suffering of an abused spouse, I imagine, but the analogy to the overall pathological situation is apt).

US Soccer: I too am excited to see the youngsters play for the USMNT. Where we are now, at the beginning of the 2030 WC cycle, I just want to see flashes. Would be nice to win, but mainly, I just want to see a few of the young guns start to rise to the challenge and connect with current guys who will be in their prime in 2030 like Freeman, Tillman, Reyna. And among the young guns, I am including tweezers like Yunus Musah. Really Freeman too.

Starting lineup: Sullivan, Ellis, and OK's guy! And Reyna and Musah. Love this lineup.

Today's USMNT Starting XI vs. Peru: 1-Matt Freese, 4-Tyler Adams (capt.), 6-Auston Trusty, 7-Gio Reyna, 8-Cavan Sullivan, 10-Yunus Musah, 13-Peyton Miller, 16-Alex Freeman, 17-Malik Tillman, 18-George Campbell, 22-Justin Ellis

OneKeg said:

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I mostly agree with sluggo on Cal FB. I will still be at the games because in essence, I am one of the couple thousand abused spouses of Cal Football. I will even donate, and am going with friends to Cal-UNLV. Though if that was a solo trip, I would cancel - the friends part should be fun.

But it is not wrong to call out that what is happening with Cal Football coaching is negligent abuse. (Yes of course, my feelings as a Cal fan are not important compared to the actual suffering of an abused spouse, I imagine, but the analogy to the overall pathological situation is apt).

US Soccer: I too am excited to see the youngsters play for the USMNT. Where we are now, at the beginning of the 2030 WC cycle, I just want to see flashes. Would be nice to win, but mainly, I just want to see a few of the young guns start to rise to the challenge and connect with current guys who will be in their prime in 2030 like Freeman, Tillman, Reyna. And among the young guns, I am including tweezers like Yunus Musah. Really Freeman too.

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I am older than you and have been through more abuse. Last night was the first time it was not fun.