Why Diego Luna isn't on USMNT World Cup roster

It seemed clear that Diego Luna was going to play for the United States at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Instead, though, the talented midfielder was left out of the USMNT squad by Mauricio Pochettino. 

Luna had featured in the vast majority of games since Pochettino took charge of the U.S. team.

Despite that, he misses out of a World Cup on home soil.

It's a bummer for the creative Luna, and it could leave the United States lacking in moments when they need a bit of a spark. Luna certainly brings a spark.

MORE: Mexico has a World Cup… duck?

Why didn't Diego Luna make the USMNT?

It appears Mauricio Pochettino has valued European and high-level experience over current form or availability.

Luna still plays in MLS, and that appears to have lost him at least a bit of respect.

The U.S. appears to have kept Gio Reyna over Luna.

MORE: Tim Howard commercial disrespects USMNT legend

Reyna has the big-game experience, and maybe that's the difference here. 

He was in the U.S. World Cup squad at 19 years old in 2022, although he got just two matches and 53 minutes total. He has played in 25 matches overall for his country.

Reyna could certainly make his mark in this tournament. It's just a bummer for Luna that he won't get the chance to do so himself.

More FIFA World Cup news:

• How playing for South Korea removed mandatory military service for Son Heung-min
• Lamine Yamal hanging out at a Walmart
• Harry Kane reveals blunt feelings about potential England issues in U.S. heat
• Lawrence, Kansas has fallen in love with the Algerian national team
• Germany fan Freddy is going viral for his journey through the American South