Reyna and Tillman Battle for USMNT World Cup Midfield Spots Under Pochettino

As the United States Men's National Team prepares to unveil its 2026 World Cup roster, head coach Mauricio Pochettino faces a pivotal decision concerning the attacking midfield positions. What once seemed a clearer path for certain players has become a tight race, particularly between Gio Reyna and Malik Tillman, both vying for crucial roles on home soil.

The final weeks of the Bundesliga season have introduced a new dynamic to this competition. While Tillman appeared to be the frontrunner earlier in the year, recent club form has shifted the narrative, making Pochettino's choice increasingly complex.

Tillman's Early Ascent

Malik Tillman had a strong run leading up to the World Cup roster decision period. His standout performance in last summer's Concacaf Gold Cup, followed by a move from PSV to Bayer Leverkusen, positioned him as a central figure in the USMNT's attacking plans. He started in March friendlies against Belgium and Portugal, accumulating more minutes than Reyna during that international window. Tillman's consistency and tactical adaptability, particularly in a back-three formation similar to Pochettino's system, underscored his value. He has registered eight goals across all competitions this season for Leverkusen despite injury setbacks.

Reyna's Resurgence

Meanwhile, Gio Reyna, a long-established national team presence, has experienced an injury-plagued season with Borussia Monchengladbach. However, a late-season surge has seen him play more minutes since the start of April than Tillman, clocking 88 minutes in five games compared to Tillman's 71 minutes in six matches. Reyna's natural talent has always kept him in contention, with nine goals in 36 international appearances showcasing his ability to impact games. Despite a challenging club season, his recent uptick in playing time and influence could be a timely boost for his World Cup aspirations.

Pochettino's Midfield Conundrum

Mauricio Pochettino has experimented extensively with his squad since taking charge in October 2024. The attacking midfield is a crucial area, with both Tillman and Reyna possessing the skills to operate between the lines and contribute to a dominant, offensive style of play. While there might be room for both on the final roster, only one is likely to be the de facto starter, soaking up the majority of minutes in a high-stakes tournament. The battle highlights the depth and competitive nature within the USMNT squad.

Key facts

Club Form and World Cup Implications

Tillman's recent club form at Leverkusen has seen him transition from a starter to a substitute, coinciding with the club's push for a UEFA Champions League spot. His team faces Hamburg on the final day, needing a win and other results to qualify. Reyna's situation at Borussia Monchengladbach, though also marked by injuries, has seen him gain more minutes in the crucial final weeks. This late-season performance could be a significant factor for Pochettino as he finalizes his squad. The decision will not only impact individual careers but also shape the USMNT's tactical setup and offensive capabilities for a World Cup on home soil.

Fuente: CBS Sports Soccer RSS – https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/news/gio-reyna-malik-tillman-world-cup-mauricio-pochettino-usmnt/