The U.S. men’s national team’s 28-player group for three massive, upcoming World Cup qualifiers can be split into two camps. There’s the 13-player MLS-based contingent, the one that’s been gathered together for over two weeks looking to stay in shape while in the middle of its extended offseason. Then there’s the 15-player European-based part, which has crossed the Atlantic following another weekend of club matches to complete the puzzle.
In assessing form of individuals coming into this camp, there are more variables than usual, given the timing of the international window. The U.S. is accustomed to playing games at the end of January, but they’re usually friendlies against experimental squads to bring a lower-intensity camp to a close.