Mauricio Pochettino’s March roster for friendlies vs Belgium and Portugal omits Diego Luna despite his return from injury. Betting impact: expect Gio Reyna to be favored for a starting role and consider backing Reyna-related props; avoid early player-prop bets on Luna until he logs consistent club minutes—his World Cup odds hinge on fitness and form.
Pochettino names March roster as preparation ramps up for 2026
Mauricio Pochettino unveiled a mixed U.S. squad for March friendlies against Belgium and Portugal, combining Major League Soccer talent with Europe-based players as he widens his assessment ahead of the 2026 World Cup cycle. The call-ups are intended to test depth and tactical options, with Pochettino using these high-profile tune-ups to finalize roles and experiment with combinations.
Notable omission: Diego Luna left off the list
One of the most talked-about absences is midfielder Diego Luna. The Real Salt Lake midfielder missed time due to injury but has since returned to action, appearing twice off the bench while regaining match fitness. Despite those appearances, Luna did not make the March roster, raising questions about his immediate standing in the coach’s plans.
Luna’s recovery and club form under the microscope
Luna’s path back is straightforward on paper: complete a full recovery, string together consistent club minutes and make the most of future national-team call-ups. His recent substitute appearances suggest he’s on track but not yet at the kind of form or sharpness that secures an automatic selection in a crowded midfield pool.
Comparisons with Gio Reyna and squad dynamics
Analysts note a contrast between Luna’s steady trajectory and Gio Reyna’s more fluctuating career path. Reyna was included in the March squad and is viewed as more comfortable in a starting capacity, which may give him an edge in Pochettino’s immediate plans. Luna’s perceived “grit” and tactical adaptability remain assets, but consistency will be crucial to overturn this omission.
Implications for the 2026 World Cup roster race
With months remaining before final rosters are set, the omission is not definitive. The March friendlies offer another testing ground for fringe players and those returning from injury. For Luna, continued club performances and an impressive showing in any future camps could quickly change his World Cup prospects, but competition for minutes and specific tactical roles will be intense.
Betting implications and markets to watch
Punters should view Luna’s absence as a signal to be cautious on early player-prop bets tied to him. Expect Gio Reyna to be favored in starting-lineup markets and consider backing Reyna-related props in the upcoming friendlies.
Orlando City has been seeking to sign Antoine Griezmann since the start of the 2026 season
For long-term World Cup markets, wait for sustained club form from Luna before committing funds; consider smaller, hedged bets on Luna reaching the tournament squad rather than large single-market plays. Monitoring lineups and minutes in the March games will be critical for informed wagers.
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