Former USMNT player Alexi Lalas has expressed his support for Weston McKennie to be included in the national team’s squad for the 2026 World Cup. This endorsement comes after McKennie’s recent recall for the October friendlies, marking a significant moment in the young midfielder’s career.
### Weston McKennie’s Return to the USMNT
McKennie, who currently plays for Juventus, had been noticeably absent from manager Mauricio Pochettino’s recent rosters, sparking concerns about his future role with the national team. However, Pochettino’s decision to include McKennie in the group for the upcoming friendlies has shed light on the midfielder’s potential importance to the team.
### Alexi Lalas’ Support
Lalas, a former USMNT player himself, has publicly endorsed McKennie for a spot in the 2026 World Cup squad. This vote of confidence from a respected figure within the soccer community adds weight to McKennie’s inclusion and highlights the midfielder’s talent and potential impact on the team.
### A Potential A Squad
Pochettino has referred to the group for the October friendlies as his potential A squad, indicating the significance of the players selected. McKennie’s presence in this group signals that he is still considered a valuable asset to the national team and could play a crucial role in their future successes.
### McKennie’s Career Trajectory
McKennie’s career has been on an upward trajectory since making the move to Juventus, showcasing his skills on the international stage as well. His versatility, work rate, and technical ability make him a valuable asset to any team, including the USMNT.
### Looking Ahead to the 2026 World Cup
With the 2026 World Cup set to be hosted in North America, there is heightened anticipation for the USMNT to field a competitive squad that can make a strong showing on home soil. McKennie’s potential inclusion in the team brings excitement and optimism for fans who are eager to see the national team succeed on the world stage.
### Conclusion
Weston McKennie’s recall to the USMNT for the October friendlies has reignited discussions about his role within the team and his potential impact on their performance leading up to the 2026 World Cup. With the support of figures like Alexi Lalas and manager Mauricio Pochettino, McKennie’s inclusion in the national team signals a positive outlook for his future and the team’s prospects in upcoming competitions. As fans eagerly await the World Cup in 2026, McKennie’s presence adds depth and talent to a squad poised for success.
The Rise of Weston McKennie
Weston McKennie’s return to the USMNT comes at a pivotal moment in his career. The young midfielder has been making waves in European football since his move to Juventus in 2020. McKennie’s performances for the Italian giants have not gone unnoticed, with his dynamic playing style catching the eye of fans and pundits alike.
McKennie’s versatility on the pitch is one of his key strengths. Capable of playing in multiple positions in midfield, he offers tactical flexibility to any team he represents. His ability to contribute defensively, win aerial duels, and create scoring opportunities make him a valuable asset for both club and country.
The Importance of International Experience
As the USMNT prepares for the 2026 World Cup, the inclusion of players with international experience like McKennie is crucial. Competing on the global stage requires a unique set of skills and mentality that can only be gained through exposure to top-level competition. McKennie’s time at Juventus and previous appearances for the national team have helped him develop the necessary tools to excel in high-pressure situations.
Furthermore, McKennie’s presence in the USMNT squad provides leadership and guidance to younger players. His experience playing at the highest levels of European football can offer valuable insights and mentorship to emerging talents within the national team setup.
The Road to 2026
With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, the USMNT is in the process of building a squad capable of competing against the world’s best. McKennie’s inclusion in the team represents a step in the right direction towards assembling a formidable lineup for the tournament.
Manager Mauricio Pochettino’s decision to include McKennie in the potential A squad for the upcoming friendlies signals a vote of confidence in the midfielder’s abilities. Pochettino’s strategic acumen and experience in managing top-tier players bode well for McKennie’s development and integration into the national team setup.
The Impact of Alexi Lalas’ Endorsement
Alexi Lalas’ support for Weston McKennie adds another layer of validation to the midfielder’s inclusion in the USMNT squad. Lalas, a respected figure in American soccer circles, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his analysis of players’ potential and contributions to the national team.
Lalas’ endorsement serves as a rallying cry for fans and pundits alike, highlighting McKennie’s capabilities and the impact he can have on the team’s performance. As the USMNT gears up for the 2026 World Cup, having the backing of influential figures like Lalas reinforces McKennie’s position as a key player in the squad.
Bringing It All Together
Weston McKennie’s journey back to the USMNT is a testament to his talent, hard work, and determination to succeed at the highest levels of the game. As he continues to grow and evolve as a player, his presence in the national team setup offers promise and potential for future success.
With the backing of figures like Alexi Lalas and Mauricio Pochettino, McKennie’s inclusion in the USMNT squad sets the stage for an exciting chapter in American soccer. As the team looks ahead to the 2026 World Cup, fans can rest assured that players like McKennie will play a vital role in shaping the team’s identity and prospects on the global stage.
