Oct 10, 2025; Austin, Texas, USA; United States midfielder Weston McKennie (8) reacts after a missed USA scoring chance in the first half at Q2 Stadium.

When Mauricio Pochettino named his 25-man roster for the U.S. men's national team's friendlies against Paraguay and Uruguay, one name stood out as the most surprising omission: Weston McKennie.

While other big names like Christian Pulisic and Chris Richards missed the roster, their absences weren't surprising after recent injury struggles.

But McKennie is healthy, starting the past four games for Juventus including a 1-1 draw against Sporting CP in the Champions League on Tuesday.

Speaking to reporters after naming his squad, Pochettino said that a recent coaching change in Turin meant McKennie was better served staying in Italy over the November window.

"It's important for Weston to be there and try to convince the [new] coaches," Pochettino said.

"I think it's more important than maybe being with us because we already know what he can provide the team."

Juventus sacked Igor Tudor after a difficult opening stretch of the season. In his place came Luciano Spalletti, who has started McKennie in his first two matches at the helm.

After he missed the Gold Cup this summer due to Club World Cup duty with Juve, a healthy McKennie was dropped from the USMNT's September roster.

At the time Pochettino similarly indicated that McKennie was better served staying with Juventus to fight for his place.

"We already know Weston, it's not necessary to call him," Pochettino said.

McKennie earned a recall for last month's friendlies against Ecuador and Australia. The midfielder started both games and performed well as the U.S. posted a draw and a win.

This article originally appeared on Pro Soccer Wire: Pochettino explains McKennie omission from USMNT roster

Reporting by Seth Vertelney, Pro Soccer Wire / Pro Soccer Wire

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