Pulisic, McKennie back in US squad for Concacaf Nations League quarters

Captain Christian Pulisic and midfielder Weston McKennie have returned to the United States squad for the Concacaf Nations League quarterfinal matches against Jamaica, as head coach Mauricio Pochettino announced his 25-player training camp.

Pulisic and McKennie, who play for Italian clubs AC Milan and Juventus, respectively, missed the 2-0 friendly loss to Mexico last month. The duo will headline the two matches against Jamaica, Pochettino's first official competitive games since being appointed as head coach of the US in September.

Forward Tim Weah is also back in the squad, but will serve the second game of his two-match suspension during the first leg against Jamaica, after receiving a red card against Panama in the Copa America in June.

Don't miss a minute 📺 pic.twitter.com/C8rWOuocJY

— US Soccer Men's National Team (@USMNT) November 10, 2024

Midfielder Tyler Adams, who has struggled with injuries, was among the notable absentees, but Pochettino said the 25-year-old was a very important player for the future of the team.

"The most important thing now is to see the (Adams') progression. We know very well that we need to look after him if we want to have him in the best condition for 2026 (World Cup). I think it is important to build that relationship," Pochettino told reporters on Sunday.

The US, chasing a fourth-straight Concacaf Nations League title, visit Jamaica on Thursday before hosting the Caribbean side on November 18 in St. Louis, Missouri.

US NOVEMBER TRAINING CAMP ROSTER

Goalkeepers: Diego Kochen, Patrick Schulte, Zack Steffen, Matt Turner

Defenders: Mark McKenzie, Tim Ream, Chris Richards, Antonee Robinson, Miles Robinson, Joe Scally, Auston Trusty

Midfielders: Brenden Aaronson, Gianluca Busio, Johnny Cardoso, Weston McKennie, Aidan Morris, Yunus Musah, Tanner Tessmann, Malik Tillman

Forwards: Cade Cowell, Ricardo Pepi, Christian Pulisic, Brandon Vazquez, Tim Weah, Alex Zendejas.