Soccer
USMNT Announces Roster for Paris 2024 Olympics with a Notable Surprise
USMNT reveals its roster for Paris 2024 Olympics, featuring an unexpected young talent.
The U.S. Men's National Soccer Team (USMNT) has unveiled its roster for the 2024 Paris Olympics, marking a significant return to the Olympic stage after a 16-year hiatus. The announcement has generated considerable excitement, not only for the team's comeback but also for the notable inclusion of some unexpected players.
A Long-Awaited Return
The USMNT's absence from the Olympics since 2008 has been a point of contention among fans and analysts alike. The team failed to qualify for the 2012, 2016, and 2020 Olympics, making this year's participation a milestone. The squad's last Olympic appearance saw them finishing in ninth place at the Beijing Games, where Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, clinched the gold.
The Roster Breakdown
The 18-player roster, announced by head coach Marko Mitrović, includes a mix of seasoned professionals and promising young talents. The team will be competing in Group A alongside host nation France, New Zealand, and Guinea.
Goalkeepers
- Patrick Schulte (Columbus Crew)
- Gaga Slonina (Chelsea/England)
Defenders
- Maximilian Dietz (Greuther Fürth/Germany)
- Nathan Harriel (Philadelphia Union)
- Miles Robinson (FC Cincinnati)
- John Tolkin (New York Red Bulls)
- Caleb Wiley (Atlanta United FC)
- Walker Zimmerman (Nashville SC)
Midfielders
- Gianluca Busio (Venezia/Italy)
- Benjamin Cremaschi (Inter Miami CF)
- Jack McGlynn (Philadelphia Union)
- Djordje Mihailovic (Colorado Rapids)
- Tanner Tessmann (Venezia/Italy)
Forwards
- Paxten Aaronson (FC Utrecht/Netherlands)
- Taylor Booth (FC Utrecht/Netherlands)
- Duncan McGuire (Orlando City SC)
- Kevin Paredes (Wolfsburg/Germany)
- Griffin Yow (KVC Westerlo/Belgium)
The Over-Age Players
Olympic soccer rules allow each team to include three players over the age of 23. For the USMNT, these spots are filled by:
- Walker Zimmerman (31)
- Miles Robinson (27)
- Djordje Mihailovic (25)
Zimmerman, a veteran with 42 senior international caps, brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the squad. Robinson and Mihailovic, both with significant international experience, round out the trio of over-age players, providing stability and guidance to the younger members of the team.
A Notable Surprise
One of the most surprising inclusions in the roster is Benjamin Cremaschi from Inter Miami CF. At just 19 years old, Cremaschi is the youngest player on the team and is already being touted as a future star. His selection highlights the emphasis on youth and potential in this Olympic squad, aiming to build a strong foundation for future international competitions, including the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
Coaching and Preparation
Marko Mitrović, who took over the coaching reins from Gregg Berhalter, has expressed his pride in the selected players. Mitrović, a Serbian native with extensive experience in youth coaching, has been instrumental in shaping the team’s strategy and preparation for the Olympics. The team will kick off their campaign against France on July 24, followed by matches against New Zealand on July 27 and Guinea on July 30.
Challenges and Expectations
The USMNT faces a challenging path in Group A, particularly with the opening match against host nation France. However, the blend of experienced players and young talents provides a balanced squad capable of making a significant impact. The team's performance in the group stage will be crucial in determining their advancement to the knockout rounds.
Looking Ahead
The inclusion of young players like Cremaschi, alongside seasoned professionals like Zimmerman, reflects a strategic approach to not only compete in the present but also to build for the future. The USMNT's participation in the Paris 2024 Olympics is more than just a return to the global stage; it is a statement of intent and a step towards reclaiming their place among the elite in international soccer.
As the team prepares for their Olympic journey, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely, hoping that this blend of youth and experience can propel the USMNT to new heights and perhaps even a historic Olympic medal.