Ten MLS players among those named to US U-20 national team World Cup roster

US Under-20 national team coach Tab Ramos named 10 MLS-based players to his roster for the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup on Friday, on what is viewed as one of the most talent-rich player crops in recent memory. 

“I am excited for the players who will get the chance to be able to participate in a World Cup. It’s an unforgettable experience and one that they will value forever,” Ramos said in a statement. “This is always an extremely tough decision to make as a coach. There were an additional four or five players who also really deserve to go this time.”

The squad includes three players from FC Dallas and two from the Philadelphia Union, as well as representatives from D.C. United, the New England Revolution, Real Salt Lake and LA Galaxy. Though currently on loan with USL side Richmond Kickers, Aboubacar Keita is a Columbus Crew SC player. Twelve players are currently playing internationally, while nine are based domestically.

“This team has excellent leadership and competitiveness on and off the field,” Ramos said. “We are all looking forward to taking advantage of this opportunity which was earned with unprecedented focus, consistency and determination at the Concacaf U-20 Championship.”

All three of the USA’s group stage games will be broadcast on the FOX networks. The US U-20s will open their tournament vs. Ukraine on Friday, May 24 (2:30 pm ET | FS1), then face Nigeria on May 27 2:30 pm ET | FS1) and conclude group play vs. Qatar on May 30 2:30 pm ET | FS2).

* = ruled out due to injury
# = replaced injured player