USMNT’s goalkeeper situation remains unsettled with World Cup start days away

IRVINE, Calif. — It’s hard to believe Mauricio Pochettino doesn’t know who he wants starting in goal when the U.S. men’s national team opens its World Cup campaign Friday against Paraguay. But, according to Matt Freese, he hasn’t yet informed players of his plan.

“Focused on today,” said the NYCFC keeper, whose index and middle fingers were taped. “Training today, we have 5,000 fans lighting this place up. I’m pumped for training today.”

Given that Freese played all 90 minutes in Saturday’s 2-1 loss to Germany, with a lineup that looked like a preview of Pochettino’s starting 11 at the World Cup, it would be a surprise if he weren’t the pick.

Ever since last summer’s Gold Cup, when Freese started over Matt Turner throughout, the 27-year-old has appeared to be on the inside track to start.

“As a competitor, you always want to be on the field,” Freese said. “Always want to help your team in whatever capacity, [that] doesn’t change in this moment. Whatever I’m called upon to do, I’m ready to do.”

NYCFC goalkeeper Matt Freese (49) saves the ball during the second half against the Columbus Crew. Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images

Unlike past World Cups, though, where keepers like Tim Howard and Brad Guzan were some of the most accomplished players on the roster, the position looks a lot more unsettled.

Turner, the USMNT’s 2022 starter, struggled for playing time at Nottingham Forest in England and ended up back in MLS this season. Freese is a relative newcomer to the national team, earning his first cap last June before the Gold Cup, and hasn’t played club football in Europe.

Goalie Matt Turner of the U.S. during training in June 8. Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

“I don’t hear [the noise], not really,” Freese said. “I’m not really listening to anyone outside of the guys with me and the coaching staff, obviously, and focused on just doing my thing each and every day. Being present and with that in mind, it’s fair to say the U.S. has a great goalkeeping corps historically. I was a fan of that goalkeeping corps for much of my life. Still am.

“It’s an honor to be on this team and be part of that group, to hopefully continue that great legacy.”

Chris Richards (ankle) was a full participant in training for the first time, another step in the right direction after the Crystal Palace defender participated in ball work Friday.

“We will see,” Pochettino said. “Today, first time with the team, it’s good.”

Tyler Adams (load management) was the only USMNT player who didn’t train, albeit in a light session that didn’t include any tactical work. The players who started against Germany were less involved, while those who didn’t worked mostly on transition.