The 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup is underway in Chile, kicking off on September 27 and running through October 19, with the United States U-20 Men’s National Team poised for a strong showing. Led by coach Marko Mitrović, the USA squad features a robust contingent of talent from Major League Soccer (MLS), underscoring the league’s growing role in developing young American stars.
With 16 MLS players on the roster, the team blends domestic league expertise with international talent, striving to build on the USA’s impressive track record of reaching the quarterfinals in the last four tournaments.
Drawn into Group E alongside New Caledonia, France, and South Africa, the USA opens against New Caledonia on September 29, followed by France on October 2 and South Africa on October 5, all at Estadio El Teniente in Rancagua, Chile.
The top two teams from each group advance to the knockout stage, along with the four best third-place finishers. Fans are buzzing about this MLS-heavy roster, which includes breakout performers and academy products ready to make their mark on the global stage.
MLS Players in the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup USA Roster
In this article, we spotlight the 16 MLS players in the USA 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup roster, highlighting their clubs, positions, and key details. Whether you’re tracking fantasy soccer, World Cup qualifiers, or emerging talents, these names are ones to watch as the USA chases glory ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on home soil.
Goalkeepers
- Adam Beaudry (Colorado Rapids): A promising shot-stopper who earned his spot through consistent performances in MLS NEXT Pro. He’s part of the Rapids’ youth pipeline and brings reliability to the backline.
- Duran Ferree (San Diego FC): The young keeper has been a standout for expansion side San Diego FC, showcasing quick reflexes and distribution skills that could be crucial in high-pressure matches.
Defenders
- Reed Baker-Whiting (Seattle Sounders FC): Versatile full-back who helped the Sounders win the Leagues Cup last month. His speed and crossing ability make him a threat in the future.
- Luca Bombino (San Diego FC): Played a key role in San Diego FC’s strong Western Conference campaign. His defensive solidity and leadership qualities stand out at just 18 years old.
- Noah Cobb (Colorado Rapids): A center-back with composure beyond his years, Cobb has featured in MLS matches and is expected to anchor the USA defense.
- Nolan Norris (FC Dallas): Known for his tenacity, Norris brings energy from FC Dallas’ academy system and could shine in midfield-to-defense transitions.
- Frankie Westfield (Philadelphia Union): Features regularly for the Supporters’ Shield-leading Union. His athleticism and tackling make him a fan favorite and a lockdown defender.
Midfielders
- Matthew Corcoran (Nashville SC): A box-to-box midfielder with vision and stamina, Corcoran has been honing his skills in Nashville’s setup.
- Taha Habroune (Columbus Crew): Breaking through with the reigning MLS Cup champions, Habroune’s creativity and passing range add flair to the midfield.
- Brooklyn Raines (Houston Dynamo FC): Enjoyed a breakout season in Houston, contributing assists and goals. His work rate could be pivotal in group stage battles.
- Pedro Soma (San Diego FC): A dynamic playmaker from San Diego, Soma’s technical skills and decision-making elevate the team’s possession game.
- Niko Tsakiris (San Jose Earthquakes): Returning for his second U-20 World Cup, Tsakiris offers experience and composure, having impressed in San Jose’s midfield.
Forwards
- Luke Brennan (Atlanta United): A speedy winger with goal-scoring instincts, Brennan aims to provide width and creativity for the USA attack.
- Zavier Gozo (Real Salt Lake): Shining alongside USMNT star Diego Luna, Gozo has notched four goals this season and brings clinical finishing to the frontline.
- Peyton Miller (New England Revolution): Impressed as a starting left back despite being listed as a forward—his versatility allows him to contribute defensively and offensively.
- Marcos Zambrano (Real Salt Lake): A goal poacher from RSL’s academy, Zambrano’s movement and finishing could unlock tough defenses like France’s.
Why MLS Talent Dominates the USA U-20 Squad
This 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup USA Squad showcases MLS’s commitment to youth development, with clubs like San Diego FC (three players) and Real Salt Lake (two) leading the way. Twelve players return from the 2024 Concacaf U-20 Championship qualifying squad, bringing continuity and chemistry.
Coach Mitrović has emphasized building on the USA’s consistent performances, as the only nation to hit the quarterfinals in the last four U-20 World Cups.
As the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup tournament unfolds, these MLS stars could propel the USA deep into the knockout rounds, boosting their profiles for senior USMNT call-ups. Keep an eye on matchups against powerhouse France, where individual brilliance from players like Gozo and Habroune might make the difference.