It’s just a matter of time before USMNT takes on Canada for the September friendly clash. Fresh off a Copa America upset, the American boys will try to wear the white jersey with a fresh mind. However, not all have been called up to camp by Mikey Varas to do the same with Antonee Robinson being one of them.

The defender was one of the six changes that have been made by the Star and Stripes’ 24-player roster for the September window. One would say the Fulham star is injured or he may have under-performed in the previous matches, but again, that isn’t the case. The reason why Antonee Robinson is not playing for USMNT is because he has been given a well-deserved break. His place in the squad isn’t in danger as it wasn’t feasible for him to balance his domestic as well as national side.

Even interim head coach Varas also agreed to this problem. “September is always a tricky window. You have players coming off international tournaments and then straight into preseasons, players who are trying to establish themselves and their places at clubs, and you have a lot of movement in the transfer window. So you have to look at the whole picture and what is going to be best long term.”

Varas added, “Jedi [Robinson] has been playing banged up for the last year, and the best thing for him at this moment is to stay back, reset, and get ready for a long, grueling Premier League season.” The former USMNT U20 coach emphasized that focusing on what’s best for the player in the long term ultimately benefits the national team as well.

Hence, Robinson surely can have a sigh of relief as he would be watching his side from his home while also looking to focus on his domestic duties. However, the same cannot be said for his other teammates. Weston McKennie should be concerned about his position on the team. Despite signing a recent contract extension, the 26-year-old has found himself benched at Juventus under new head coach Thiago Silva.

Similar is the case for defender Cameron Carter-Vickers, a regular starter at Celtic, and Miles Robinson, who has had an inconsistent first season with FC Cincinnati, are also not included. While these players are out due to their performance, might as we take a look at the injuries.

Aside from Antonee Robinson, more USMNT star ruled out vs Canada

Youngster Giovanni Reyna was stripped recently from the 24-player squad after he sustained a left groin strain injury. The knock reportedly occurred during the group’s training session. Further tests will be performed to see the length of the injury and a recovery will be planned accordingly. Replacing Reyna would be Chivas superstar Cade Cowell.

Speaking of other injuries, Sergiño Dest tops the injury list as he continues to recover from an ACL tear. Following him is Tyler Adams, still dealing with back problems that have overshadowed his time at Bournemouth. Tim Weah is another key player sidelined after suffering a hamstring injury during Juventus’ season opener.

Either way, it remains to be seen how USMNT does against Canada without these notable absences.