Yunus Musah has revived his form at AC Milan. Yet Pochettino still hesitates to grant him a spot.
After a rocky loan at Atalanta and missing the 2026 World Cup, the 23‑year‑old has turned his fortunes around under Milan boss Ruben Amorim.
Musah started seven of Milan’s first ten Serie A matches, earning a USMNT recall in September after nearly 18 months on the sidelines.
You might wonder why Pochettino continues to omit him.
Reasons behind Musah’s USMNT exclusion
The issue isn’t his performance; it’s the depth of competition.
Pochettino boasts a wealth of midfield talent, with Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie, Malik Tillman, Gio Reyna and Sebastian Berhalter all vying for spots. For my money, that depth forces tough decisions.
Newcomer Santiago Castañeda also received a nod ahead of the November CONCACAF Nations League quarter‑final versus Haiti.
Can Musah reclaim his place in the USMNT lineup?
He likely remains in Pochettino’s plans, but regular minutes at a top Italian club no longer guarantees selection.
Musah, already capped 50 times, now must demonstrate something his rivals lack.
His Milan revival has opened the door, yet walking through it is another challenge entirely.
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