USMNT calls in 20 domestic players for Nations League pre-camp

United States Men’s National Team head coach Gregg Berhalter is using the MLS postseason to bring in some players for extra training ahead of two vital CONCACAF Nations League matches. Today, U.S. Soccer announced that the USMNT will hold a pre-camp from November 2-9 in Florida for 20 MLS players whose season has already ended.

The pre-camp falls outside the FIFA international window, so European-based players, along with any players called in from MLS Cup finalists Toronto FC or the Seattle Sounders, will be added once it opens on November 10th. That roster is expected to be released on November 6th, and the final roster for the matches announced on November 10th. For Berhalter, it’s a way to take advantage of the open time for many players to start preparations for matches against Canada on November 15th in Orlando and against Cuba on November 19th in the Cayman Islands. Anything less than two wins by at least 4 total goals will see the USMNT fail to advance to the CONCACAF Nations League playoffs.

The 20-man pre-camp roster:

GOALKEEPERS (3): Brad Guzan (Atlanta United), Sean Johnson (New York City FC), Matt Turner (New England Revolution)

DEFENDERS (7): Reggie Cannon (FC Dallas), Chase Gasper (Minnesota United FC), Nick Lima (San Jose Earthquakes), Aaron Long (New York Red Bulls), Daniel Lovitz (Montreal Impact), Mark McKenzie (Philadelphia Union), Walker Zimmerman (Los Angeles Football Club)

MIDFIELDERS (5): Brenden Aaronson (Philadelphia Union), Sebastian Lletget (LA Galaxy), Djordje Mihailovic (Chicago Fire), Wil Trapp (Columbus Crew SC), Jackson Yueill (San Jose Earthquakes)

FORWARDS (5): Paul Arriola (D.C. United), Corey Baird (Real Salt Lake), Jeremy Ebobisse (Portland Timbers), Jonathan Lewis (Colorado Rapids), Gyasi Zardes (Columbus Crew SC)

What do you think of this pre-camp idea and the players that are included on it? Hit the comments for the discussion.