Diego Kochen Withdrawn from FIFA Under-20 World Cup
Diego Kochen, a promising 19-year-old goalkeeper for the United States Under-20 team, has been withdrawn from the upcoming FIFA Under-20 World Cup after his parent club, Barcelona, summoned him back following an injury to fellow goalkeeper Joan García. Kochen had just arrived in Chile and was expected to play a vital role as the starting keeper when the U.S. kicks off its tournament against New Caledonia in Rancagua on Monday.
Replacement and Impact on Barcelona
The U.S. soccer federation announced on Saturday that Gavin Beavers will step in to replace Kochen. Alongside Beavers, the squad also includes goalkeepers Duran Ferree and Adam Beaudry. This loss comes at a particularly challenging time for Barcelona, as García sustained a meniscus injury during a match against Real Oviedo, sidelining him for around six weeks. This leaves Barcelona short of options at the goalkeeper position, prompting them to reassess their roster ahead of important upcoming fixtures in both LaLiga and the Champions League.
Kochen’s Career and Aspirations
Kochen has been a member of the Barcelona organization since 2019, successfully moving through their ranks and spending the last two seasons juggling between the first team and the reserve squad. Although he has yet to make his official competitive debut for the first team, he has participated in a friendly match and recently renewed his contract through 2028.
Despite being called up to senior national team training camps by U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) coach Mauricio Pochettino, Kochen has not yet played in a senior international match. He previously expressed his aspiration to contribute to the national team at the 2026 World Cup, emphasizing his readiness to fill any role needed by the team, whether as the starter or backup.
“It would be surreal, but I’m there for whatever the country needs,”
Kochen stated last year, showcasing his commitment to the program.
