Pulisic Returns: USMNT Gears Up for South Korea Friendly

The U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) is set to ignite the pitch this Saturday as they host South Korea in the first of two crucial September friendlies. The highly anticipated match, taking place at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey, marks the return of several European-based stars, most notably AC Milan’s Christian Pulisic, who was conspicuously absent from the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup.

Head coach Mauricio Pochettino has made a clear statement with his latest squad selection, bringing back key figures after the USMNT’s disappointing Gold Cup final loss to Mexico. This window presents a vital opportunity for the team to regroup, integrate its top talent, and build momentum ahead of future challenges.

Fans have eagerly awaited Pulisic’s return, as the winger hasn’t featured for the USMNT since the Concacaf Nations League finals in March. His presence, alongside in-form Norwich City striker Josh Sargent and AS Monaco’s Folarin Balogun, injects a significant boost of quality and experience into the squad.

Pochettino’s Tactical Blueprint: Predicted Starting XI

With South Korea boasting the likes of LAFC star Son Heung-min, Pochettino will undoubtedly look to field a strong and cohesive unit. Here’s how Sports Illustrated anticipates the USMNT will line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation:

Goalkeeper

• GK: Matt Freese – After an impressive showing at the Gold Cup, Freese appears to have solidified his position as the top choice between the posts for the remainder of 2025.

Defense

• RB: Sergiño Dest – The PSV Eindhoven defender makes a welcome return to the American squad, having recovered from the injury that sidelined him during the Gold Cup.
• CB: Chris Richards – Fresh off securing his second trophy with Crystal Palace, Richards is a central figure in the USMNT’s defensive plans.
• CB: Tim Ream – The veteran presence at the back, Ream’s leadership has been instrumental in Charlotte FC’s remarkable eight-match winning streak in MLS.
• LB: Max Arfsten – Despite primarily playing a different role with Columbus Crew SC, Arfsten seems to be Pochettino’s preferred option at left-back in the absence of Antonee Robinson.

Midfield

• DM: Tyler Adams – The AFC Bournemouth midfielder is back in the U.S. squad, bringing his crucial defensive and distributive qualities after a strong Gold Cup performance.
• DM: Luca de la Torre – A key component of San Diego FC, De la Torre has been pivotal in making the Chrome and Azul one of MLS’s most successful expansion teams.
• RM: Timothy Weah – Having recently made a high-profile move to Marseille, Weah will be eager to showcase his pace and attacking prowess on the wide areas for the USMNT.
• CM: Diego Luna – A breakout star from the Gold Cup, Luna has been in scintillating form for Real Salt Lake this season, bagging eight goals and two assists.

Attack

• LM: Christian Pulisic – The AC Milan star’s return is a massive boost for the USMNT. After his controversial absence from the Gold Cup, Pulisic is expected to immediately assume a critical playmaking role.
• ST: Josh Sargent – With an incredible five goals in his last four matches for Norwich City in the English Championship, Sargent will be looking to translate his red-hot club form onto the international stage.

The Pulisic Factor: A Game Changer

Christian Pulisic’s return is undoubtedly the headline. His ability to create chances, drive at defenders, and score crucial goals has been sorely missed. His leadership and experience will be vital as the USMNT looks to reassert its dominance and build chemistry among its European and MLS-based talents.

The decision to rest key players like Pulisic for the Gold Cup was met with mixed reactions, but his re-integration into the squad for these friendlies signals a clear intent from Pochettino to field his strongest possible team. This match against South Korea, a formidable opponent, will be an excellent litmus test for the team’s readiness and cohesion.

For more insights into the USMNT’s roster decisions and player analysis, you can read The Athletic’s detailed breakdown of the September roster.

Key Players to Watch

Beyond Pulisic, the form of Josh Sargent will be under intense scrutiny. His goal-scoring prowess for Norwich City has been exceptional, and the USMNT desperately needs a consistent threat up front. Tyler Adams’ return to midfield will also be crucial, providing the defensive shield and passing range that anchors the team.

The blend of seasoned veterans like Tim Ream and rising stars like Diego Luna promises an exciting dynamic. These friendlies are not just about results; they are about building a cohesive unit, experimenting with tactics, and giving players the opportunity to stake their claim for future competitive matches.

The stage is set for an engaging encounter in Harrison. With Pulisic back in the fold, the USMNT aims to deliver a performance that excites fans and sets a positive tone for the challenges ahead.