Cristian Roldan: A Resilient Return to the USMNT
WHIPPANY, N.J. — Cristian Roldan’s journey back to the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) is one both unexpected and triumphant. A few days after delivering a standout performance against Lionel Messi and Inter Miami in the Leagues Cup final, Roldan found himself on vacation in Chelan, Washington. While enjoying some family time, he received a life-changing phone call that would take him over 2,000 miles away, right into the heart of the national team setup.
A Surprising Call-up
Roldan, who hadn’t donned a USMNT jersey in two years, had almost resigned himself to the idea that he was off the national team radar. As fate would have it, the Seattle Sounders’ general manager, Craig Waibel, was on the other end of the line, asking if Roldan was available for the upcoming games against South Korea and Japan—the first under new head coach Mauricio Pochettino. His immediate response? “Absolutely. I’ll drop anything I’m doing, and I’ll head over there.”
This response speaks volumes of Roldan’s dedication and professional mindset. Before long, he was booked on a red-eye flight to New Jersey, ready to seize the opportunity he had longed for.
The Road to Opportunity
Upon arriving, Roldan didn’t miss a beat. “I know these opportunities come few and far between,” he stated. “So, for me to be able to at least show [Pochettino] how I operate was really important to me.” This determination reflects a mental resilience that has characterized his career: a mix of steady performance in MLS and unwavering focus, even in the face of adversity.
At 30, Roldan has been a mainstay in Major League Soccer. His performances have garnered him the titles of “most underrated player” not just once but twice, celebrating his relentless work ethic and talent. He shone brightly in crucial games, particularly during the Leagues Cup, where he helped lead the Sounders to victory against some of the most formidable opponents, including European giants like Atlético Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.
Overcoming Setbacks
Despite his successes, national team calls had dwindled. After the 2022 World Cup, Roldan’s appearances became scarce. Neither a January camp nor other friendly matches saw him don the national colors. This lack of visibility has not deterred his resolve, though. Roldan continued to grind away in Seattle, keeping his focus on club performance and avoiding disappointment over missed national team opportunities.
Even after he helped the Sounders clinch the Leagues Cup, Roldan remained far from the limelight of international football. However, the call from Pochettino marked the beginning of a reawakening.
The Impact of Recent Success
Reflecting on his recent success, Roldan noted that taking Messi out of the game was no small feat. With injuries plaguing his teammates, Roldan stepped up as a leader, playing through his own injury. He exemplified the kind of “glue guy” mentality that resonates with coaches and team dynamics—a player who lifts everyone around him, regardless of his own status.
As he celebrates victories, such as placing his daughter Mia into the Leagues Cup trophy, Roldan’s infectious joy underscores the importance of both personal and team achievements. The celebratory moments in the locker room after the win showcased the camaraderie and electric atmosphere that seasoned players like him bring to a squad.
Looking Ahead
With the next World Cup just nine months away, Roldan finds himself at a pivotal point not only in his career but in his longtime dream of representing his country on the grandest stage. “You can still make an impact, whether you’re playing or not,” he shares, embodying the spirit of a seasoned pro. His aim now is clear: to seize the moment, whether in training or on the pitch.
As Roldan continues to make his mark, both with the Sounders and the national team, his story serves as a powerful reminder of perseverance. Despite two years away from the USMNT, the call-up riffs on themes of hard work, resilience, and the sheer unpredictability of football. As he trains under Pochettino’s watchful eye, only time will tell how far this talented Stevenage product can go with the national team in the lead-up to the 2026 World Cup.