Seattle Sounders' Cristian Roldan Added to USMNT Roster for South Korea, Japan Friendlies

Cristian Roldan has been added to the U.S. men's national team roster by head coach Mauricio Pochettino for friendlies against South Korea and Japan in early September. The 30-year-old Seattle Sounders midfielder, who was a 2022 World Cup squad member but did not play, has earned 37 caps and is regarded as one of the top defensive midfielders in MLS this season, having helped his club win the Leagues Cup recently. This call-up marks Roldan's first national team camp since the 2023 Gold Cup, reflecting his transition from wing to a defensive midfield role where he has excelled. Despite a minor injury and heavy club usage, Roldan played the full Leagues Cup final and will be available for the USMNT matches without missing club games. The U.S. squad for the matches includes mostly MLS players, with Tyler Adams the only European-based midfielder. The friendlies will be held on September 6 in Harrison, New Jersey, and September 9 in Columbus, Ohio, with extensive live coverage planned.