ATLANTA — United States midfielder Cristian Roldan stated that the upcoming friendlies against Belgium and Portugal present a “great opportunity” for the USMNT midfielders to demonstrate their abilities, particularly in light of the absence of injured teammate Tyler Adams.
The U.S. has convened at their training camp in Marietta, Georgia, in preparation for friendlies against Belgium on March 28 and Portugal three days later. Adams is not part of the group due to a quadriceps injury sustained while playing for Bournemouth on March 13.
“I think with Tyler’s absence, it’s a significant gap,” Roldan remarked during a Zoom call with reporters. “Tyler contributes immensely to our team; his energy, tackling ability, ground coverage, and leadership are invaluable, and now it’s time for the other midfielders to step up and fill that void.”
“The midfield position is quite competitive. When you consider players like [Weston McKennie] and [Tanner Tessmann] performing well, along with [Sebastian Berhalter] and [Aidan Morris], and then Johnny [Cardoso] playing for AtlΓ©tico, it raises the stakes. For me, it’s about how I can compete and position myself favorably before the World Cup to secure a spot on the roster.”
“However, if my name isn’t called, I will strive to be the best teammate possible, and I expect the same from the other midfielders. The level of competition is present, and the challenges we will face on the field are significant. This is an excellent opportunity for all of us to measure ourselves against strong competition.”
This training camp is the final gathering for the USMNT before the squad is announced in May. Consequently, Roldan anticipates that the pressure stemming from manager Mauricio Pochettino’s “no guaranteed roster spot” approach will intensify.
“I expect competition during this camp. While competition is expected in every camp, this one is particularly crucial leading up to the World Cup, especially with the coach’s remarks that no one’s position is assured,” Roldan noted. “Thus, proving oneself daily is vital. These friendlies are not merely friendlies; we are competing against prominent European nations with rich histories in the sport. This is our opportunity to showcase our capabilities and our ability to compete. We are all eager for the level of competition that accompanies the pressure and emotions tied to the aspiration of participating in a World Cup.”
Roldan is among 10 players in the current camp who have World Cup experience, having been part of the 2022 squad. He emphasized the importance of such experience in the team as they head into the summer, particularly given the increased expectations surrounding the U.S. squad.
“Having experience on the team is always crucial because results and moments in games can shift unexpectedly,” the Sounders midfielder explained. “Whether it’s conceding a goal or supporting a teammate, it’s essential to have players who have been in those situations to uplift the team and rely on that experience. The World Cup will undoubtedly bring significant pressure, especially since we are hosting it and are in good form. There are high expectations within our locker room, so drawing on that experience will be essential when the pressure mounts and results are needed.”
“We are confident that we have enough experienced players who have performed in critical moments, particularly in Europe. Therefore, I believe we are all prepared and focused on having a successful camp.”
Roldan also discussed the competition that includes newer players in the group, such as Villarreal defender Alex Freeman, noting that his well-rounded skills position him as a contender for the World Cup squad.
“He adds significant value to the team, and I’m looking forward to his development,” Roldan said regarding Freeman. “I hope he continues to progress at Villarreal. However, it will require considerable effort for him to see playing time [in LaLiga].
“The level of competition there is quite high, but I fully expect him to tap into more of his potential, grow as a player, and embrace challenging situations to continue his development.”
Freeman mentioned that he has sought Roldan’s guidance since joining MLS with Orlando City and starting to play with the national team.
“Cristian has been someone I can turn to,” Freeman stated. “When I think of one of the leaders on the team, Cristian Roldan is one of the first names that comes to mind.”
“Especially during my early days in the academy and transitioning to the first team, Cristian Roldan was the player I associated with MLS veterans and consistently performing MLS players.”
The U.S. will commence World Cup play in Group D on June 12 against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.
