Zavier Gozo: The Rising US Star Catching Pochettino's Eye for World Cup
A 19-year-old American talent is making waves in MLS and putting himself in contention for a surprise World Cup call-up. Zavier Gozo's recent performances for Real Salt Lake have been so impressive that USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino is reportedly considering him for the 2026 tournament squad.
From MLS Breakout to National Team Radar
Gozo announced himself with a spectacular volley against Sporting Kansas City last weekend, cutting inside from the right and firing across goal into the far corner. That moment of brilliance wasn't an isolated incident - he's already scored two goals and provided two assists in just six appearances this season. His other goal came against Atlanta United, where he showed similar quality by cutting inside and bending a left-footed finish into the net.
What makes Gozo's rise particularly interesting is his playing style. He's a natural winger who excels at taking on defenders and creating chances in transition. This season, he leads Real Salt Lake in both successful dribbles per game (1.7) and chances created (11). These are exactly the qualities that could make him valuable to the US national team, especially since they lack depth in wide attacking positions beyond Christian Pulisic.
The World Cup Wildcard Possibility
Pochettino faces an interesting decision with Gozo. The teenager wasn't included in recent USMNT friendlies against Belgium and Portugal, which means he'd be entering the World Cup setup without any senior international experience. However, Pochettino has shown he's not afraid to make bold selections - he's already called up over 60 different players since taking the job in 2024.
Here's what makes Gozo a potential wildcard pick:
- Direct playing style: He offers something different from other US wingers
- Current form: He's performing at a high level in MLS right now
- Youth and energy: At 19, he could provide fresh legs off the bench
- Big-game mentality: He's already scoring important goals for his club
Real Salt Lake coach Pablo Mastroeni has been particularly impressed with Gozo's attitude. "He's nowhere near the final product he will become," Mastroeni said. "He's a willing learner and often when you have young players come into the first team they think they've already made it. He has the character to continue learning."
Beyond the World Cup: What's Next for Gozo?
Even if he doesn't make the World Cup squad, Gozo's future looks bright. European clubs are already taking notice, with Aston Villa and Atlético Madrid reportedly showing interest. He could follow the path of other American talents who have moved from MLS to top European leagues.
Interestingly, Gozo wasn't even supposed to be Real Salt Lake's next big thing - that honor was expected to go to Diego Luna, who's more likely to make the World Cup squad and has attracted interest from Spanish clubs. But Gozo has developed so quickly that he's now considered the player with higher potential. Mastroeni has even deployed him as a right wing-back at times just to get him on the field, though his long-term future is clearly in attacking positions.
Key Takeaways
- Zavier Gozo is having a breakout MLS season with Real Salt Lake, scoring spectacular goals and creating chances regularly
- His playing style offers something the USMNT lacks - a direct winger who can beat defenders and create in transition
- Pochettino is considering him as a World Cup wildcard, despite his lack of senior international experience
- European clubs are already monitoring his progress, with a move abroad likely in the near future
- He's surpassed expectations at RSL, developing faster than anticipated and showing exceptional attitude according to his coach
With Real Salt Lake sitting fourth in the Western Conference and playing attractive football, Gozo will have plenty more opportunities to showcase his talent this season. Whether he makes the World Cup squad or not, his performances are ensuring that more people will be paying attention to this exciting young American talent.
— Editorial Team
