The USMNT roster for the 2025 October international break has been announced. It’s a blend of established stars with a few fresh faces sprinkled in ahead of international friendlies against Ecuador and Australia.
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup less than a year away, every moment matters that much more, and this camp includes a notable surprise in Aidan Morris.
Head coach Mauricio Pochettino claimed the September window would mark the “end of experimentation.” This makes Morris’ inclusion even more impressive. Strong club form can still earn players a spot on the national stage.
League Breakdown
The USMNT roster reflects a familiar pattern for the US. Core talent from top European leagues with standout performers from Major League Soccer (MLS). Here’s the full breakdown:
Major League Soccer (MLS)
MLS players continue to play a major role on the roster under Poch. 10 players, including Matt Turner, are represented from the domestic league in this window, who can bring a high work rate and adaptability.
Italy (Serie A)
- Christian Pulisic (AC Milan)
- Weston McKennie (Juventus)
Italy remains home to some of the United States men’s national team’s biggest stars. Christian Pulisic’s form at Milan has been sublime. And McKennie’s consistency at Juventus keep them square into Pochettino’s crosshairs.
England (Premier League & Championship)
- Brenden Aaronson (Leeds United)
- Aidan Morris (Middlesbrough)
- Chris Richards (Crystal Palace)
- Antonee Robinson (Fullam)
- Haji Wright (Coventry City)
- Patrick Agyemang (Derby County)
Adam Morris’ Championship performances have caught attention. His pressing energy and passing range have made him a fan favourite since leaving Columbus Crew for Middlesbrough. He is one of this window’s most intriguing storylines.
Germany (Bundesliga)
- Malik Tillman (Bayer Leverkusen)
- James Sands (St. Pauli)
The German Bundesliga is represented by Tillman and Sands. Tillman was expected. Sands not so much. Probably the next big surprise inclusion after Morris. A welcome addition that can offer tactical flexibility.
France (Ligue 1)
- Tanner Tessmann (Olympique Lyon)
- Mark McKenzie (Toulouse)
- Tim Weah (Marseille)
- Folarin Balogun (AS Monaco)
Tessmann has become a reliable two-way midfielder in France.
Scotland & Other European Leagues
- Cameron Carter-Vickers (Celtic)
- Alex Zendejas (Club America)
Defensive depth remains a key strength. CCV’s European experience may be crucial in high-pressure matches leading up to 2026.
Aidan Morris USMNT Call-Up: Is It Really a Surprise?
Perhaps the biggest talking point from the October roster is Aidan Morris. After being left out of recent squads, many fans were questioning whether he was too far down the pecking order to catch Poch’s eye. His return defied expectations even more so because Pochettino had promised to finalise his core moving forward.
Morris’ performances for Middlesbrough have been hard to ignore. He’s become one of the team’s most consistent midfielders in the Championship, demonstrating a mix of aggression and vision. He is playing so well, in fact, that he has been recognised with multiple POTM awards this season.
This call-up shows that form still matters late in the cycle. This window represents a genuine opportunity to earn a spot in the 2026 World Cup.
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October Friendlies for the USMNT Roster
The USMNT faces Ecuador and Australia, who have both already qualified for the upcoming World Cup. Still, these matches will serve as two strong preparation matches.
USA vs Ecuador will be a dynamic challenge and will bring physicality to push Pochettino’s men. Their high press and direct transitions could be a problem for the midfield. Australia has structure and aerial power. The Socceroos are difficult to break down and could look to strike off the counter in the USA vs Australia game.
These opponents are more than just friendlies, as these are some of the last few dress rehearsals for the kind of pressure and tactical teams the US will face at the highest level.
Key Storylines to Watch
Midfield Competition Heats Up
The fight for starting roles intensifies. McKennie, Tessmann, Aaronson, and Morris will all battle for minutes.
Expect Morris to bring tenacity and defensive cover that complements McKennie’s forward bursts.
Defensive Stability
Can Cameron Carter-Vickers play his way into consistent minutes on the back line?
Attack Must Deliver
Christian Pulisic and Folarin Balogun have solidified themselves as two of the three attacking spots on the field.
Who steps up to take the third spot? Zendejas, Weah, Wright or someone else.
Final Thoughts: The USMNT’s Focus Turns Toward 2026
The USMNT roster for the October international break reinforces Pochettino’s commitment to a competitive, form-driven selection process.
With the World Cup fast approaching, every call-up counts. Aidan Morris’ inclusion is a reminder that standout club form still opens doors.
Facing Ecuador and Australia provides the perfect measuring stick for the US ahead of a crucial year. These matches are about more than results. They’re a preview of the teams’ readiness for 2026.
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / NurPhoto
Recording Date: 30.09.2025