The United States men’s national team officially announced its 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup earlier this week, with head coach Mauricio Pochettino confirming the group that will represent the country on home soil.
Familiar names such as Christian Pulisic, Tyler Adams, and Weston McKennie made the final roster, while a few selections and omissions quickly became major talking points.
One of the biggest surprises in the squad was the omission of Diego Luna. The Real Salt Lake midfielder had become a regular part of the national team under Mauricio Pochettino and many expected him to make the final World Cup roster.
Photo by Dustin Markland/Getty Images
Diego Luna also became a fan favorite over the past year because of his performances and growing role with the national team.
The 22-year-old also built a strong connection with fans after famously continuing to play through a broken nose during a match against Costa Rica in 2025.
Clint Dempsey Addresses Diego Luna's World Cup Snub
Former USMNT forward Clint Dempsey discussed Diego Luna’s omission during an appearance on ‘Men in Blazers’, saying the midfielder connected with supporters because many fans could relate to his background and journey.
“So it seems like we missed that connection between the players and the fans. And he was one of those guys, to your point, he fought, He's, working class, he gave people someone that they could relate to, that they grew up with. They might have played pickup with, high school soccer, club soccer with, you know what I'm saying?”
Dempsey also highlighted the resilience Luna showed every time he represented the national team.
“I think that's why people connected with his story. But also the fight that he had, breaking your nose, coming back in the game and, you know, he did get four goals, four assists, and that was, like you said, that was second amongst the team.”
I think that's why people connected with his story. But also the fight that he had, breaking your nose, coming back in the game and, you know, he did get four goals, four assists, and that was, like you said, that was second amongst the team."
