Gio Reyna will join the U.S. men's national team for the 2026 World Cup, while midfielder Diego Luna will not be included [1].
These roster decisions are critical as the U.S. prepares to host the tournament. The selection process reflects head coach Mauricio Pochettino's vision for the squad's tactical identity and player chemistry during the home championships.
Reports indicate that the final roster will consist of 26 players [2]. While Reyna has secured his place in the squad, the omission of Luna is being described as a surprising snub [3]. Other leaked details suggest that Alex Zendejas will also be included, whereas Tanner Tessmann is expected to be left out [3].
The official announcement of the roster is expected to take place on Tuesday, May 26, 2026 [4]. This timeline follows a series of evaluations by the coaching staff to determine which players best fit the needs of the team for the tournament.
Reyna's inclusion marks a significant moment for the player and the national team. His presence provides a specific creative profile in the midfield that Pochettino intends to utilize. Conversely, Luna's absence leaves a gap for a player who had been viewed as a rising talent within the U.S. soccer system [3].
The team is currently finalizing preparations to ensure the 26-man group is synchronized before the opening matches. The selection of the final squad is the last major hurdle for the U.S. before they begin their campaign as the host nation [2].
“Gio Reyna will be on the United States' 2026 World Cup roster while midfielder Diego Luna will not”
The inclusion of Gio Reyna and the exclusion of Diego Luna signal a preference for established international experience and specific tactical fits over emerging domestic form. By finalizing a 26-man roster, Mauricio Pochettino is prioritizing a cohesive core that can handle the pressure of a home World Cup, even if it means making controversial personnel cuts that may spark debate among supporters.
