The U.S. men’s national soccer team is preparing to introduce a youthful roster as it embarks on the next phase of development under head coach Mauricio Pochettino. The team will convene during the September-October international window, their first gathering since reaching the Round of 16 at this summer’s World Cup.

This upcoming camp marks the beginning of Pochettino’s full cycle leading into the 2030 World Cup, a tournament for which he is currently contracted. The Argentine-born coach has emphasized a strategic blend of experienced players and emerging talent in shaping the squad’s future. Central to this vision is the inclusion of 16-year-old forward Cavan Sullivan, who is set to receive his first senior national team call-up.

Sullivan, a Philadelphia native, has garnered attention for his recent performances with the Philadelphia Union, notably contributing six goals and five assists since the MLS season resumed after the World Cup. His emergence as a dynamic attacker highlights a broader generational shift within the U.S. program. The teenager is slated to join Premier League club Manchester City upon turning 18.

Alongside Sullivan, several other young prospects are expected to join the national team for the upcoming friendlies against Peru, Chile, Mexico, and Canada. These include New York Red Bulls’ Julian Hall, 18, who has been identified as a key figure for the next generation, as well as Adri Mehmeti, 17, Neil Pierre, 18, another Philadelphia Union player, and Crystal Palace’s Zavier Gozo, 19. Their call-ups reflect Pochettino’s intention to cultivate talent over the next several years, aiming for a well-prepared, competitive squad by 2030.

The call-ups also indicate a temporary absence of established players like Christian Pulisic. The Hershey, Pennsylvania native, and former team cornerstone, will miss the upcoming window due to a fractured right leg sustained during the World Cup. Since his injury, Pulisic has seen limited action with his club, AC Milan, in Serie A.

For Sullivan, representing the United States on the international stage is a personal milestone. Speaking at a recent event in New York, he described his focus on continuous development and the honor of wearing the national team jersey. The inclusion of Sullivan and other young talents signals a deliberate investment in building upon the momentum generated by the U.S. performance in the 2026 World Cup and positioning the program for future success.