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Jeff Carlisle
Multiple Authors
ATLANTA — Midfielder Cristian Roldan of the United States indicated that forthcoming friendly matches against Belgium and Portugal present a significant chance for the collection of USMNT midfielders to demonstrate their capabilities, particularly given the unavailability of injured teammate Tyler Adams.
The U.S. squad convened at their training facility in Marietta, Georgia, ahead of their exhibition games scheduled for March 28 against Belgium and three days later against Portugal. Adams is not part of this assembly, having sustained a quadriceps injury with his club, Bournemouth, on March 13.
“I believe that with Tyler’s absence, it creates a considerable void,” Roldan conveyed during a video conference with journalists. “Tyler contributes immensely to our squad; his vitality, his capacity to tackle, his ground coverage, his leadership, and now it’s up to the remaining midfielders to fill that space.”
“I consider the midfield position to be highly competitive. For example, you have individuals like [Weston McKennie] and [Tanner Tessmann] performing exceptionally well. You also have players such as [Sebastian Berhalter] and [Aidan Morris] showcasing strong performances. And then there’s Johnny [Cardoso] playing for Atlético. For me, it’s about how I can vie for a spot? How can I position myself favorably before the World Cup, ensuring I’m in the best possible situation to make that roster?”
“However, should my name not be selected, I intend to be the most supportive teammate possible, and I fully expect the other midfielders to act similarly. Nevertheless, the level of competition is present. The standard of opposition we will encounter on the pitch is also present. So, this serves as an excellent chance for all of us to assess ourselves against formidable opponents.”
This current training camp marks the final gathering for the USMNT before the official squad announcement in May. Consequently, Roldan anticipates that the pressure stemming from manager Mauricio Pochettino’s doctrine of “no guaranteed roster spot” will likely intensify by a notable degree.
“I foresee competition during this camp. I anticipate competition in every camp, but this one, specifically leading up to the World Cup with the manager’s statements, confirms that no one’s position is assured,” Roldan commented. “Therefore, proving oneself daily is exceptionally crucial. And look, these friendlies are more than just friendlies. We are competing against major European nations with a deep heritage in the sport. This is our opportunity to demonstrate our abilities, and who we can contend with. Thus, I believe we are all eager for the level of competition that accompanies the pressure and emotions tied to the aspiration of participating in a World Cup.”
Roldan is among ten players within the current camp who possess prior World Cup exposure, having been a part of the 2022 team. He emphasized the critical requirement for such seasoned understanding within the group leading into this summer, especially considering the elevated expectations surrounding the U.S. contingent.
“It is consistently vital to have experienced individuals on the team because match outcomes, critical game moments, and unforeseen circumstances arise,” the Sounders midfielder stated. “Whether it’s conceding a goal or encouraging a colleague beside you, having those who have been through it before to rally the team and draw upon that experience is profoundly important. Furthermore, considerable pressure will be present at the World Cup. We are, of course, the host nation, and we are currently in strong form. There is much anticipation within our changing room, so relying on that experience will be indispensable when pressure mounts and a positive result is needed.”
“We are confident that we possess sufficient experience, with enough players who have participated in significant moments, particularly in European competitions. Therefore, I believe we are all prepared and focused on conducting a very productive camp.”
Roldan also addressed the fact that this competition includes newer members in the group, such as Villarreal defender Alex Freeman, and suggested that Freeman’s all-around skill set places him squarely in contention for a potential World Cup squad selection.
“He contributes a great deal to the team, and I am enthusiastic for him,” Roldan remarked about Freeman. “I hope he continues his development at Villarreal. However, it will require considerable effort for him to secure playing time [in LaLiga].”
“The standard of play is exceedingly high there, but I fully expect him to realize even more of his potential, mature as a player, and embrace challenging situations so that his growth persists.”
Freeman, in turn, mentioned that he has sought Roldan’s guidance since his entry into MLS with Orlando City and his initial involvement with the national team.
“Cristian has been the sort of person I can approach,” Freeman articulated. “I feel that when you look to one of the leaders on the team, Cristian Roldan is one of the first names that comes to my mind.”
“Particularly when I was first in the academy and transitioning into the first team, trying to integrate, Cristian Roldan was the type of figure you recognized when considering MLS veterans and players who consistently delivered strong performances.”
The United States commences its World Cup campaign in Group D on June 12, facing Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.
