Cristian Roldan has been added to the U.S. Men's National Team roster for the upcoming friendly matches against South Korea and Japan. The Seattle Sounders midfielder joins the team led by coach Mauricio Pochettino.
Roldan's addition comes on the heels of helping the Seattle Sounders secure the Leagues Cup title. The 30-year-old midfielder brings versatility to the USMNT, with the ability to play in multiple midfield positions. Roldan has one goal and eight assists in 26 league appearances this season for the Sounders.
The midfielder has 37 international appearances for the USMNT. He was part of the 2022 World Cup roster, though he did not feature in any matches. His last appearance for the U.S. Men's National Team was in 2023 at the CONCACAF Gold Cup. The USMNT had a disappointing run in that tournament, losing in the semifinals to Panama. Roldan played in five matches, starting in two.
Roldan's inclusion in the roster marks his first national team call-up since the 2023 Gold Cup. Some soccer observers had noted his absence from the roster, especially considering that more than half of the team already consists of MLS players. His recent performance, including his role in shutting down Lionel Messi and Inter Miami in the Leagues Cup final, may have influenced Pochettino's decision.
Roldan will join the U.S. team on Thursday. The team is preparing for a friendly against South Korea on Saturday in Harrison, New Jersey, followed by a match against Japan on Sept. 9 in Columbus, Ohio.
The complete USMNT roster includes:
Roldan has transitioned from playing on the wing to a defensive midfield role, where he is considered one of the best in North America. Despite nursing a "buttocks" injury recently, he played the entirety of the Leagues Cup final. His club, the Seattle Sounders, next play on Sept. 13 at home against the LA Galaxy, so he is not expected to miss any club matches due to the international call-up.
