Can the USMNT’s first post‑World Cup break bring fresh talent? The upcoming international window will showcase Mauricio Pochettino’s inaugural squad for the new cycle.
Pochettino calls up Campbell
Injuries cleared the deck, allowing a wave of youngsters to step up. Among them is SC Elversberg forward Cole Campbell, who recently pledged his senior future to the United States and has earned Pochettino’s nod after a strong Bundesliga start.
Speaking to the press ahead of the season, Campbell declared, “My future is with the U.S.; that’s set in stone.” Some wondered about his choice, given his Icelandic mother and teenage stint in Iceland.
Former Dortmund forward Cole Campbell, now with SV Elversberg, reaffirms his US allegiance. Born in Houston with Icelandic roots, he backs the USMNT.
His mother once represented Iceland, yet Campbell—raised in Georgia before heading abroad—remains convinced. “I’ve already decided to switch to the US. It was for many reasons, but my future lies there,” he said. For my money, his commitment will boost the squad’s depth.
Transfer, first goal and a call‑up – expect Campbell to earn his first US cap this autumn.
Campbell cut his teeth at the Atlanta United academy, then moved to Borussia Dortmund’s youth system, climbing the ranks before debuting for the German side in 2024/25 and later spending time on loan at Hoffenheim.
Elversberg secured the 20‑year‑old permanently this summer, and he wasted no time. He netted his first Bundesliga goal in a season‑opening victory over Bayer Leverkusen and now awaits his USMNT debut.
Ahead of the list release, Campbell told reporters, “I’m hoping to be called up. We’ll see. I’m focused on performing my best and praying for that first cap soon.” With four matches on the horizon and injuries to Pulisic and Balogun, the youngster could earn minutes under Pochettino.
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