The U.S. Men’s National Soccer Team (USMNT) has encountered a significant setback ahead of the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup, as veteran goalkeeper Zack Steffen has been forced to withdraw from the tournament due to a knee injury sustained during training. The 30-year-old, currently playing for the Colorado Rapids, is expected to be sidelined for four to six weeks, according to reports.
Steffen’s injury occurred during a training session on Tuesday, prompting his immediate departure from the USMNT camp to return to Colorado for further evaluation. This development marks the second goalkeeper loss for the U.S. squad, following the earlier withdrawal of Patrick Schulte from the Columbus Crew due to an oblique injury.
With these absences, head coach Mauricio Pochettino’s options between the posts are now limited to Matt Turner of Crystal Palace, Matt Freese of New York City FC, and Chris Brady of the Chicago Fire. Turner, who has been a mainstay for the national team, brings experience and a proven track record, including standout performances in previous international competitions.
The USMNT is set to commence its Gold Cup campaign on June 15 against Trinidad and Tobago, followed by group stage matches against Saudi Arabia on June 19 and Haiti on June 22. Prior to the tournament, the team will engage in friendly matches against Turkey and Switzerland, providing an opportunity to assess the current roster and make necessary adjustments.
Steffen’s injury adds to a growing list of challenges for the USMNT, as several key players, including Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, Tim Weah, and Gio Reyna, are unavailable due to injuries or club commitments. These absences have necessitated roster adjustments, with the inclusion of players like Walker Zimmerman, Paxten Aaronson, and Nathan Harriel to bolster the squad.
Despite these hurdles, the USMNT remains focused on delivering a strong performance in the Gold Cup. The coaching staff is evaluating potential additions to the goalkeeper roster, with young talents like Diego Kochen being considered to provide depth and support.
As the team navigates these challenges, the upcoming friendlies will serve as a critical platform to assess player readiness and cohesion. The USMNT aims to adapt and overcome, striving for success in the tournament despite the recent setbacks.