EAST HARTFORD, Conn. — Not for the first time, U.S. men's national team head coach Mauricio Pochettino arrived at a post-match press conference after a loss, this time a 2-1 defeat to Turkiye in the first of two friendlies that will precede the Gold Cup. There was one thing he was relieved about, though.

Vickers, and now the injured Folarin Balogun.There are still plenty of stars, including Tyler Adams, Chris Richards, and perhaps-Atleti-bound Johnny Cardoso, so this will be fun.MORE — USMNT roster | USMNT schedule,

The U.S. manager said he has "faith in the players who are here," while critics continue to lament how many big stars are absent.