Pochettino's New Era: Freeman and Pepi Seize World Cup Auditions

The Mauricio Pochettino era for the United States men's national team is barely weeks old, but the new manager is already getting a glimpse of the depth that could define his 2026 World Cup squad. In Friday's 2-0 friendly victory over Australia in Philadelphia, two players seized their moment: 20-year-old defender Alex Freeman and striker Ricardo Pepi, each staking a claim for a long-awaited spot on the big stage.

The Pochettino effect

Pochettino, appointed in September to replace Gregg Berhalter, has spoken about bringing a fresh tactical lens and an open competition for places. The match against Australia was his second in charge, and he used it to rotate heavily, giving minutes to fringe players. Freeman, a product of the FC Dallas academy now with the club's first team, started at right-back and opened the scoring with a composed finish after a corner—his first international goal. It was the kind of bold, confident performance that catches a new coach's eye, especially in a position where the USMNT has long sought stability.

Freeman's breakthrough

For Freeman, the goal was more than a box-score entry. He had been a regular in youth national teams but lacked senior caps. Against Australia, he showed not only defensive solidity but also the attacking verve that Pochettino demands from his full-backs. With the World Cup on home soil in 2026, every audition matters. Freeman's display suggests he could be a late bloomer into the senior setup, offering depth behind established options like Sergiño Dest and Antonee Robinson. The fact that he scored in a winning effort only amplifies his case.

Pepi's opportunity

Ricardo Pepi, the 21-year-old PSV Eindhoven striker, came off the bench after Christian Pulisic was forced off with an injury in the first half. Pulisic's knock is not believed to be serious, but his absence gave Pepi a golden chance to impress. The striker, who has often been the backup to Folarin Balogun, responded with a lively performance, holding up play, linking with midfielders, and threatening goal. He didn't find the net, but his overall contribution kept the USMNT attacking rhythm alive. For Pepi, who has struggled for consistent starts in competitive fixtures, this was a statement that he can be relied upon when called upon.

What it means for 2026

Pochettino's fresh perspective means that no one's spot is guaranteed. With the World Cup just over two years away, every friendly is a chance to build a case. Freeman and Pepi have given their new boss something to think about—Freeman as a potential surprise inclusion in the defensive rotation, Pepi as a dynamic option off the bench or even as a starter should Balogun falter. The USMNT's 2-0 win, built on a clean sheet and contributions from the bench, perfectly illustrated the squad depth that Pochettino will need to harness. If these performances are a preview, the next World Cup cycle could see some long-awaited breakthrough moments.