U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) head coach Mauricio Pochettino has announced his 24-player roster for the January training camp, and there’s plenty to cheer about as these MLS-based stars aim to make their mark ahead of a massive year in U.S. soccer. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just around the corner, hosted on home soil for the first time since 1994, the stakes have never been higher.
Atlanta Connections in the Spotlight
Atlanta’s own George Campbell, a rising defensive talent now with CF Montréal, is among the rostered players looking to shine on the international stage. Campbell, who developed his skills with Atlanta United’s academy, represents the local passion and pride for the beautiful game. Another familiar name for Atlanta fans is Miles Robinson, a defensive stalwart who made his mark with Atlanta United and now plays for FC Cincinnati. With 30 caps and three goals for the USMNT, Robinson’s leadership and experience will be crucial in this camp.
Building Momentum for 2026
This January camp is the first under Pochettino and sets the tone for a year packed with competitive action. The USMNT will face 2024 Copa América quarterfinalists Venezuela on January 18 at Chase Stadium in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, with kickoff at 3 p.m. ET. Then, the team takes on CONCACAF rivals Costa Rica on January 22 at Inter&Co Stadium in Orlando at 7 p.m. ET. Both matches promise to be thrilling showcases of talent and strategy.
For fans who can’t make the trip, both games will be broadcast live on TNT, Telemundo, Universo, Max, and Peacock, with Spanish-language audio available on Fútbol de Primera radio.
Emerging Talent and Seasoned Veterans
The roster features a mix of seasoned World Cup veterans like Tim Ream (Charlotte FC), Walker Zimmerman (Nashville SC), and Atlanta’s own Robinson alongside young talents eager to break through. Seven players are earning their first USMNT call-ups, including winger Indiana Vassilev, who developed his skills at the IMG Academy and now plays for St. Louis CITY.
Veterans like Ream, Zimmerman, and Robinson anchor the squad with their experience, while standout attackers like Jesús Ferreira (FC Dallas) and Brian White (Vancouver Whitecaps) add firepower. This blend of seasoned leaders and fresh faces keeps the energy high as Pochettino continues to evaluate talent ahead of key tournaments like the CONCACAF Nations League Finals and the 2025 Gold Cup.
January Camp: A Proven Launchpad
Historically, January camp has been a springboard for players to earn their spot on World Cup rosters. Atlanta fans will remember Robinson’s breakout moment in January 2021, when he scored his first international goal during a 7-0 rout of Trinidad and Tobago in Orlando. This camp’s roster is packed with players eager to follow in those footsteps and secure their place in U.S. soccer history.
Venezuela and Costa Rica Await
The USMNT’s matches against Venezuela and Costa Rica promise to test the squad’s mettle. Venezuela, fresh off an impressive Copa América showing, and Costa Rica, a perennial CONCACAF powerhouse, will challenge the Americans as they prepare for even tougher competition later this year.
Get Ready, Atlanta!
As Atlanta’s vibrant soccer community continues to grow, the January camp and upcoming friendlies are the perfect opportunities to rally behind the USMNT. Whether it’s cheering for familiar faces like Robinson and Campbell or discovering new stars, there’s no better time to show your support. Let’s make 2025 a year to remember as we gear up for the World Cup on home turf!
