The United States men’s Olympic team for the upcoming soccer tournament in Paris has been unveiled, and it is looking promising. The team, managed by Marko Mitrovic, consists of a mix of young talent and seasoned players, with three “overage” players leading the way. The roster includes familiar names like Djordje Mihailovic, Miles Robinson, and Walker Zimmerman, alongside other rising stars born on or after Jan. 1, 2001.
The selection of the players for this year’s Olympics was not without its challenges. With the tournament restricting the age limit to under 23, and only allowing for three “overage” players, Mitrovic had to carefully consider his choices. The trio of Mihailovic, Robinson, and Zimmerman will bring valuable experience to the team, having made appearances for the full U.S. men’s national team.
Other notable players on the roster include Gianluca Busio and Tanner Tessmann, who played key roles in Venezia’s successful promotion bid to Italy’s Serie A. Despite the absence of many players from the USMNT who competed in the recent Copa America, Robinson stands out as the lone exception. The majority of the selected players are currently contracted with MLS clubs, with the rest plying their trade in Europe.
The U.S. men’s team has had a long-awaited return to the Olympics, having last qualified in 2008. Back then, the team was led by the likes of Michael Bradley and Jozy Altidore, narrowly missing out on a spot in the medal round. This time around, the team earned their qualification by winning the 2022 Concacaf Under-20 Championship, showcasing the depth of talent within the youth ranks.
The upcoming tournament will see the U.S. face tough competition in their group stage matches against France, New Zealand, and Guinea. The team will be looking to make a strong start in Marseille on July 24, just before the opening ceremony, and carry that momentum through to the knockout stages. If they progress to the medal round, they will have the opportunity to compete in Paris, Bordeaux, Marseille, Décines-Charpieu, and Lyon.
To gear up for the Games, the team will be put through their paces with a training camp in Bordeaux from July 9-20, before shifting their focus to Marseille for the opening match. The blend of MLS and European-based players will have the chance to hone their skills and build chemistry as they prepare to represent the United States on the world stage.
The United States men’s Olympic soccer team is shaping up to be a formidable force, with a perfect balance of youth and experience. With talented players like Mihailovic, Robinson, and Zimmerman leading the charge, and the support of their teammates, the team is ready to take on the challenge and make their mark at the 2022 Olympics.
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