Days go by as Mauricio Pochettino’s deal with the USMNT hangs in balance. The team hopes to get the coach’s deal done and dusted, but some delays have caused the deal to stall. But let me point out one thing – Pochettino would still have asked Mikey Varas to pick some notable players. Yet, one player who didn’t make the squad is his former club’s rising goalkeeper, Gabriel Slonina, or ‘Gaga’ Slonina. Dubbed to be the next Thibaut Courtois, the 6’4″ American wonder kid is one to watch out for. But not this time anyway!

With the USMNT playing Canada and New Zealand in the friendly matches on September 7th and 10th, Slonina didn’t make the playing squad, despite showcasing sensational performances for his loan club, Barnsley. Amidst a strong showing in the Carabao Cup, Slonina won the Player of the Round for his shot-stopping abilities.

The team defeated Sheffield United 1-0 and Slonina became a major factor in their victory. Hence, he was unhappy with the decision and let his thoughts out on social media. He mentioned, “Do it to prove yourself right,” a statement without a doubt directed to the Selection Committee.

Gaga Slonina lets his intentions known to the USMNT!

If you look at the current goalkeepers of the team, one must say it is a weak spot. It’s pretty obvious. With all the talent in and around the team, replacing Tim Howard proves to be an arduous task. Simply because he lifted the USMNT during moments when they needed him to step up. Moreover, Mikey Varas selected four goalkeepers for the upcoming friendlies – Ethan Horvath, Diego Kochen, Patrick Schulte, and Matt Turner.

It’s no secret Turner remains one of the most experienced players on the squad. Nevertheless, with the arrival of Pochettino, the main objective continues to be the preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Considering the tournament is in the USA, they need their team to shine. Otherwise, as recent history suggests, the other soccer power nations will steamroll past the USMNT in their own backyard.

Of course, that will embarrass the team in front of their fans!

Having Slonina would be perfect for everyone. Remarkably, Chelsea signed him in 2022 after admiring his mentality and potential. With a tall frame, he is adept at using the ball with both his feet. For Barnsley, Slonina kept one clean sheet and has a save percentage of 75% according to FB brief.

All in all, it suggests Pochettino has a look at one of the diamonds in the squad. If he nurtures the player from a young age, there is no doubt the USMNT will have possibly the greatest-ever goalkeeper. Yes, and we are comparing him to the likes of Howard and Brad Friedel. Do you think Gaga Slonina’s exclusion will be justified or did the USMNT make a glaring error?