Alexi Lalas’ State of the Union Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Mauricio Pochettino Names Final USMNT Gold Cup Roster Jun 06, 2025

Show notes

The USMNT’s final 26-man roster for the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup is here. With Sergiño Dest and Zack Steffen being added to a long list of key players missing out, the spotlight turns to the youth-driven squad. Alexi Lalas, David Mosse, and special guest Rob Stone break down who’s in, who’s out, and what it means for the U.S. heading into the tournament and leading up to the summer of 2026.

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Thomas Dooley, USMNT Legend talks Journey to U.S. Soccer, Dual Nationals, and Coaching Abroad Jun 05, 2025

Show notes

U.S. Soccer Hall of Famer Thomas Dooley joins State of the Union to reflect on his remarkable journey from the German leagues to captaining the USMNT on the world stage. He shares stories from his time at FC Kaiserslautern, his transition to American soccer, and passion for playing for the red, white and blue.
Dooley also dives into his coaching stints across the globe—from the Philippines to Malaysia—and offers insight to his experience. Plus, Thomas teases his upcoming book and the five essential keys to success.

Intro (0:00)
Thomas Dooley Joins the Pod (1:13)
Experience as a Dual National (4:45)
Dooley's Perspective on American Soccer (9:16)
Coaching Abroad (14:43)
The Writing Process (19:45)

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USMNT Transfer Window Preview, Gold Cup Roster changes, UCL & CCC Final recap Jun 03, 2025

Show notes

Alexi Lalas and David Mosse are joined by FOX Sports Insider Doug McIntyre to break down which USMNT players could (or should) be on the move this summer. From Matt Turner’s limited minutes to Gio Reyna’s stalled momentum and Johnny Cardoso’s Atletico Madrid links — the guys dig into who needs a fresh start ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

They also dive into the USMNT Training Camp roster updates. Walker Zimmerman, Nathan Harriel, and Paxten Aaronson will join the squad, as Folarin Balogun and others step out due to injuries. Is it still “Title or Bust” for the United States, or have the expectations shifted?

The show continues with a look around the global game. The Nations League Final Four is set with Germany facing Portugal and Spain taking on France, while South America gets heated in CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifying. On the women’s side, the USWNT rolled past China in a 3–0 win led by Catarina Macario and Sam Coffey, with another friendly coming up against Jamaica.
Mosse breaks down the latest club results, including PSG and Cruz Azul’s domination in their respective continental titles matches. Back stateside, LAFC clinched a spot in the FIFA Club World Cup with a comeback win over Club América. Messi put on a clinic in the MLS as Inter Miami crushed the Crew, LA Galaxy snapped a 17-match winless streak, and D.C. United pulled off a big road upset over Cincinnati.

Listeners chime in during #AskAlexi, with questions about Alexi’s coaching aspirations and 1994 hairstyle promises. To wrap the pod, Alexi shares a surprise with Mosse from his weekend event with USSF.

Intro (0:00)

Doug McIntyre Joins the Pod: Transfer News & Gold Cup Preview (6:21)

International Window Preview (26:04)

USWNT 3-0 Win (33:30)

UCL & CCC Final Recap (35:01)

Messi Brace & Galaxy Winless Streak Ends (51:45)

#AskAlexi (56:26)

One for the Road (1:00:34)

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Pulisic Headlines USMNT Abroad Awards + Gold Cup roster Curveballs & 1994 World Cup Flashbacks May 29, 2025

Show notes

This week on State of the Union, the guys react to the latest Gold Cup roster updates, as goalkeeper Chris Brady replaces the injured Patrick Schulte. Meanwhile, Fulham announces that Jedi Robinson has undergone knee surgery—though he was already ruled out of the tournament. What do these injuries mean for the USMNT’s chances this summer?

With the European club season officially in the books, Alexi and Mosse unveil their 2024–25 USMNT Abroad Awards, including picks for Goal of the Season, Assist of the Season, Player of the Season, and more. Over the weekend, Christian Pulisic and Yunus Musah got the start in their final Serie A match of the season and finished 8th overall in the standings. Weston McKennie and Tim Weah helped Juventus secure their Champions League spot with a win over Gianluca Busio and Venezia. Should Busio consider a move this summer?

Then, a look ahead to the Champions League Final—PSG vs. Inter Milan this Saturday in Munich—and a breakdown of major Liga MX vs. MLS clashes on the horizon, including the FIFA Club World Cup playoff between LAFC and Club America as well as the CONCACAF Champions Cup Final between Cruz Azul and Vancouver. Will Brian White be able to lead the Whitecaps to victory without Sebastian Berhalter?

To close the show, the guys discuss Christian Pulisic’s Gold Cup decision, revisit iconic World Cup anthems, and share memories from the legendary 1994 U.S. World Cup squad.

Intro (0:00)
USMNT Abroad Awards (6:26)
Serie A Title Race (26:26)
UCL & CONCACAF Champions Cup Final Preview (34:30)
#AskAlexi (41:44)
One for the Road (54:46)

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USMNT Gold Cup Roster Reaction: Christian Pulisic, Antonee Robinson, Yunus Musah left out May 22, 2025

Show notes

The USMNT’s Gold Cup roster is here, and it’s stirring plenty of debate. Notable absences include stars Christian Pulisic, Yunus Musah, and Jedi Robinson. Head coach Mauricio Pochettino confirmed Pulisic will rest, while Musah withdrew for personal reasons. Josh Sargent? Simply left out due to tactical preference. The spotlight this summer turns to fresh faces, with five players—Alex Freeman, Damion Downs, Sebastian Berhalter, Quinn Sullivan, and Matt Freese—set to make their senior debuts.

While familiar names like Tyler Adams and Folarin Balogun anchor the team, breakout potential lies in players like Diego Luna, Brian White, and Sebastian Berhalter, who could become national team regulars with strong showings. The big question: does this roster still scream “Gold Cup Title or Bust”?

Off the field, the timing matters. This summer was supposed to build momentum—think trophy lifts and confetti—heading into the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup on home soil. Instead, we’re left wondering who will lead this group. Tim Ream? Tyler Adams?

With upcoming games vs. Türkiye and Switzerland before the group stage kicks off, it’s time for new heroes to emerge.

Instant Reaction: No Pulisic, Musah, Robinson (4:02)

Players that will step up (21:37)

Back to front roster breakdown (24:46)

Alexi’s projected starting XI (40:30)

Stu joined 25 Words or Less gameshow (50:18)

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Fixing the American Soccer Youth System with Amir Lowery of Open Goal Project May 21, 2025

Show notes

In this podcast episode, former professional soccer player Amir Lowery shares insights from his journey through the American soccer landscape and his transition into advocacy and leadership. A Wake Forest standout from 2001 to 2004, Lowery was drafted by the Colorado Rapids in 2005 and spent several years navigating both MLS and USL rosters, including stints with Kansas City and the Montreal Impact. After retiring from professional play in 2012, he launched a new chapter focused on social impact—culminating in his 2020 run for D.C.’s seat in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Lowery discusses the origins of Open Goal Project, a youth soccer initiative started in 2015, and the organization's shift in 2019 from supporting players to establishing its own club. He outlines the current structure of Open Goal, including how many teams they field and the challenges they face operating within the U.S. youth soccer system. Lowery offers candid thoughts on what needs to change in the national setup, comparing today's youth development landscape to when he began Open Goal. He closes by reflecting on the best and worst aspects of soccer in America—emphasizing both its immense potential and the barriers that still limit access and equity.

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Predicting the USMNT Gold Cup Roster + Richard's FA Cup win, Reyna's goodbye, Tillman's Trophy-Winning form May 20, 2025

Show notes

On the latest State of the Union episode, we highlight the FA Cup triumph for Crystal Palace, who ended a 119-year drought with a 1-0 win over Manchester City. Chris Richards played a starring role, becoming—along with Matt Turner—the first USMNT player to win the FA Cup since Tim Howard in 2004.

In the Netherlands, Malik Tillman capped PSV’s 3-1 win over Sparta Rotterdam, completing a remarkable Eredivisie turnaround where Ajax went from nine points up to one point behind.

In Italy, Juventus took a step toward Champions League qualification as Weston McKennie and Tim Weah featured in a 2-0 win. Roma beat AC Milan 3-1 despite an assist from Pulisic. Meanwhile, Inter and Napoli drew, pushing the Serie A title race to the final day.

In Germany, Gio Reyna’s late appearance in Dortmund’s 3-0 win sealed a UCL spot, though his emotional reaction hinted at a possible farewell. Where would you like Reyna to land next season? In La Liga, Lamine Yamal dazzled again, scoring his 17th goal in all competitions. Is he truly the best player in the world?

MLS Rivalry Week saw intense matchups: Reus saved LA Galaxy with a free-kick, while Inter Miami’s form collapsed in a 3-0 loss to Orlando. We closed the pid with a breakdown of the U.S. Gold Cup 60-man prelim roster, headlined by Pulisic, Balogun, and Tyler Adams, with debates on sleeper picks like Sebastian Berhalter. Who does AI think Mauricio Pochettino will select for this week's 26-man roster?

USMNT Abroad: PSV wins title, Turner & Richards make history (5:08)
MLS Rivalry Week: El Trafico madness, Messi & Miami’s poor form (26:44)
#AskAlexi: The importance (or lack thereof) soccer head coaches (38:38)
One For The Road: AI predicts USMNT Gold Cup Roster (44:50)

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Grading the new U.S. kits, Pulisic’s Coppa Italia failure & Messi’s fiery midweek May 15, 2025

Show notes

It was a dramatic week for USMNT players abroad, with headlines coming from Italy, the Netherlands, England, and beyond. In Coppa Italia action, Christian Pulisic started for AC Milan as they sought their first cup title since 2003, but it was Bologna who stole the spotlight. Dan Ndoye, who the USMNT will face in June with Switzerland, scored the only goal to lift Bologna to their first major trophy in 51 years. AC Milan now looks ahead to Sunday’s critical Serie A matchup against Roma, with Juventus facing Udinese the same day. Elsewhere, Inter take on Lazio and Parma host Napoli in key matchups that could shake up the title race.

Over in the Eredivisie, Malik Tillman turned heads with a brace in PSV's 4-1 win over Heracles, while Sergiño Dest returned to form with an assist. Ajax conceded a 90th-minute equalizer, shooting PSV atop the table by a single point with one game remaining. In the English Championship playoffs, Sunderland dramatically advanced past Haji Wright & Coventry thanks to Dan Ballard’s 120th-minute goal.

The USMNT's fall schedule is taking shape, with two September friendlies announced. The U.S. will face South Korea on September 6th and Japan on September 9th. These matches follow the USMNT’s Gold Cup title bid this summer on FOX.

Stateside, MLS Rivalry Week brings intense matchups. Columbus Crew face in-state rivals FC Cincinnati in the Hell is Real Derby. The always-heated Portland vs. Seattle clash follows LAFC’s 4-0 rout of Seattle and Portland’s 0-0 draw with RSL. In Southern California, LA Galaxy take on LAFC after blowing a lead in a dramatic 3-2 loss to Philadelphia. Inter Miami hosts Orlando after a fiery 3-3 draw where Messi’s frustration drew Bruce Arena into the mix

Alexi and Mosse wrap the podcast with a question debating if "Golden Goal" should return, and reviews are rolling in for the newly unveiled USMNT and USWNT kits.

USMNT Abroad: Pulisic falls in final, Tillman & Dest on verge of title (6:12)
September Friendlies vs Japan & Korea Republic announced (23:09)
#AskAlexi: Golden Goal fits the modern game? (33:03)
One For The Road: Grading U.S. kits (38:22)

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Inside the Rise of Sebastian Berhalter: USMNT Dreams, MLS Domination, & Favorite World Cup Memories May 14, 2025

Show notes

Vancouver’s Sebastian Berhalter joins Alexi Lalas to talk about his breakout season, Whitecaps red-hot form, and his dreams of a USMNT call-up. He opens up about growing up in a soccer family, learning from his dad and former USMNT head coach, and how living abroad changed his view of representing the United States. Plus, he discusses how the Reyna situation impacted his family, Brian White’s form, new USMNT jerseys, and favorite soccer memories.

Intro (0:00)
MLS Rise (1:58)
Vancouver in the CONCACAF Champions Cup Final (8:53)
USMNT call up hopes (13:29)
Rapid Fire: USMNT kits & best soccer memories (23:36

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Pulisic Shines, Yamal’s Ballon d’Or Buzz, and Ancelotti to Brazil May 13, 2025

Show notes

Alexi Lalas and David Mosse are fired up as American stars continue to make waves in Italy. Christian Pulisic delivered a goal and assist in AC Milan’s 3-1 win over Bologna, while Weston McKennie set up Randal Kolo Muani in Juventus' draw with Lazio. The Serie A title race is heating up, with just one point separating Inter Milan and Napoli. In the Netherlands, PSV moved closer to securing the title after a comeback win over Feyenoord, with Malik Tillman and Richard Ledezma starting. Over in Germany, Dortmund crashed Xabi Alonso’s farewell match, as his Real Madrid future comes into focus. After the fourth El Clásico of the season, Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti officially announced he’s headed to coach Brazil. Despite a hat trick from Mbappé, it was Lamine Yamal and Raphinha who powered Barcelona to victory. Where does Yamal stack up in the Ballon d’Or conversations? Back home, MLS delivered drama: Philly and Columbus drew in a top-of-the-table showdown, Diego Luna bagged his 7th goal in 11 matches, Minnesota dominated Inter Miami, and Brian White notched a brace to lift Vancouver.
In #AskAlexi, the guys discuss the LA Galaxy possibly moving on from Greg Vanney and dive into the costs of World Cup tickets. They close the show with a tribute to all the soccer moms out there.

USMNT Abroad: Pulisic leads AC Milan (6:08)
Barcelona goes 4-0-0 in El Clásico (17:40)
MLS Recap: Diego Luna & Brian White shine (35:12)
#AskAlexi: Is it time to move on from Greg Vanney? (42:47)
One for the Road (54:37)

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