The second week of November arrived quickly, bringing yet another international break. Ahead of some exciting fixtures, all eyes will mostly be on the US Men’s National Team, who gear up for its second window and more importantly, the CONCACAF Nations League under Mauricio Pochettino. For the occasion, the Argentinian tactician has once again called up his 25-player squad. However, among the surprising names, many are questioning the absence of Tyler Adams. Luckily, Pochettino has an answer for the same.

The surprise is even greater given that the versatile midfielder-turned-right-back has recovered from his injury and is back playing for his club. Still, many are questioning why the former Tottenham boss chose to leave out the 25-year-old. Although leaving him out was a decision Poch had to make, it doesn’t mean he doesn’t hold Adams in high regard. “I consider him a very important player for the future of this team,” began the 52-year-old in the press conference, as also compiled by Pro Soccer Wire.

“But the most important thing now is to see the progression. For us, we were so happy to see his evolution but at the same time, we know very well that we need to look after him if we want to have him in the best condition for the 2026 [World Cup],” added the former Chelsea boss, expressing the importance of Adams’ presence in the very gig which USMNT have their eyes on in their home soil.

“Training properly and see if he can be consistent in his club,” is the only wisest approach that Pochettino wants Adams to focus on. “I would like to have him here because I think he’s an important player for us, but at the same time, we need the priority to be building his run and his journey. And I think that’s the best for him,” concluded the USMNT manager.

Perhaps, we may see Adam make a return to the Stars and Stripes’ camp in the next window. For now, the chosen ones shall do their duty against Jamaica for the doubleheader, both of which are on November 14, Thursday at Jamaica’s Independence Park, Kingston, and November 18, Monday at the Energizer Park, St. Louis, Missouri. Speaking of which, let’s take a quick peek at the USMNT roster.

Mauricio Pochettino’s 25-player USMNT squad ahead of CONCACAF Nations League doubleheader against Jamaica

Tyler Adams isn’t the only absentee, with attacker Folarin Balogun (dislocated shoulder) and midfielder Gio Reyna (groin strain) also nursing their respective injuries. Meanwhile, a few of the names are getting called up for the first time in the USMNT camp, with others also looking to make a mark under their boss. As for the 25-player list, you may have a look. 

Goalkeepers: Kochen (FC Barcelona Atletic), Patrick Schulte (Columbus Crew), Zack Steffen (Colorado Rapids) Matt Turner (Crystal Palace)

Defenders: Mark McKenzie (Toulouse), Tim Ream (Charlotte FC), Chris Richards (Crystal Palace), Antonee Robinson (Fulham), Miles Robinson (FC Cincinnati), Joe Scally (Borussia Mönchengladbach), Auston Trusty (Celtic)

Midfielders: Brenden Aaronson (Leeds United), Gianluca Busio (Venezia), Johnny Cardoso (Real Betis), Weston McKennie (Juventus), Aidan Morris (Middlesbrough), Yunus Musah (AC Milan), Tanner Tessmann (Olympique Lyon), Malik Tillman (PSV Eindhoven)

Forwards: Cade Cowell (Guadalajara),Ricardo Pepi (PSV Eindhoven), Christian Pulisic (AC Milan), Brandon Vazquez (Monterrey), Tim Weah (Juventus), Alex Zendejas (Club América)

Speaking of their previous window, while they were able to secure a 2-0 win over Panama, the latter match saw them endure a defeat to Mexico with a similar score line. Regardless, it remains to be seen what happens in this month’s window.