The U.S. men’s national team roster has seen some last-minute changes ahead of Saturday’s friendly match against Venezuela. Forward Jesús Ferreira and defenders Jalen Neal and John Tolkin have all departed the USMNT training camp for varying reasons, the U.S. Soccer Federation announced on Wednesday.
Ferreira Returns to Seattle for Fitness
Jesús Ferreira, a key attacking player for the USMNT, has left camp to rejoin his MLS club, the Seattle Sounders. The federation stated that Ferreira will focus on regaining fitness with Seattle. The 22-year-old striker’s absence leaves a void in the U.S. forward line for the upcoming match.
Neal Dealing with Minor Issue
Defender Jalen Neal has also departed camp due to what the USSF described as a “minor issue.” The 19-year-old LA Galaxy homegrown player will now report to preseason training with his new club, CF Montréal. Neal’s exit reduces the defensive depth for interim coach Anthony Hudson.
Tolkin Leaves for Personal Reasons
Left back John Tolkin has left the USMNT camp for personal reasons, the federation announced. Tolkin, who currently plays for the New York Red Bulls, is rumored to be in the process of transferring to 2. Bundesliga club Holstein Kiel. His departure leaves the U.S. light at the left back position.
USMNT Considers Replacements
With the three players leaving camp just days before the friendly against Venezuela, the USMNT coaching staff now faces decisions on potential roster replacements. As of Wednesday, the federation stated that no decisions have been made yet on whether to call in new players to fill those spots.
It’s always difficult when you have players leave camp unexpectedly, but that’s part of the challenge in international soccer. We’ll assess our options and make the best decisions for the group heading into these two important matches.
– USMNT interim coach Anthony Hudson
Upcoming Friendlies Provide Test
The match against Venezuela on Saturday in Ft. Lauderdale serves as preparation for the USMNT’s upcoming Nations League matches in March. The game offers a chance for fringe players to stake a claim for a roster spot and for the team to build cohesion under Hudson’s leadership.
- USMNT vs Venezuela – January 21 – Ft. Lauderdale, FL
- USMNT vs Costa Rica – January 25 – Orlando, FL
Following the friendly against Venezuela, the U.S. will travel to Orlando to face Costa Rica on January 25 at Inter&Co Stadium. These two matches provide valuable experience for a largely youthful American squad as they begin the new World Cup cycle and build towards the 2026 tournament on home soil.
