Just 12 months out from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the United States Soccer men’s national team head into the Concacaf Gold Cup with a roster missing many key players.

Head coach Mauricio Pochettino spoke about the desire players need to have for the national team. Due to various circumstances, he will have far from a first choice group this summer.

It was a hugely disappointing last year for the USMNT, increasing the pressure on this summer’s Gold Cup. Dating back to a group stage exit at the Copa América which cost Gregg Berhalter his job, and then a honeymoon period for Pochettino coming to an end quickly with two losses at the Nations League final, it’s imperative the group has a better showing at the Gold Cup.

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The United States lost 1-0 to Panama on Thursday night after Cecilio Waterman scored in second-half stoppage time.

That group will be without a lot of top players. Here’s why.

The most controversial of the notable absences is star forward Christian Pulisic.

Pulisic requested to be left off the roster to rest and recharge. U.S. Soccer made it clear it was Pulisic’s choice, not theirs.

"Christian and his team approached the federation and the coaching staff about the possibility of stepping back this summer, given the amount of matches he has played in the past two years at both the club and international level with very little break," USSF technical director Matt Crocker said in a statement. "After thoughtful discussions and careful consideration, we made the collective decision that this is the right moment for him to get the rest he needs. The objective is to ensure he’s fully prepared to perform at the highest level next season."