FC Dallas winger Paul Arriola has revealed his ‘heartbreak’ at missing out on the 2022 World Cup with the United States Men’s National Team.
The 27-year-old enjoyed a strong first season in Dallas this year following a move from DC United, scoring 10 goals and providing five primary assists in 34 appearances to help the club back into the MLS Cup Playoffs.
Given his previous status as a regular, Arriola would have felt confident he’d done enough to make Gregg Berhalter’s roster. However, he was one of a number of high-profile names missing from Wednesday’s reveal in New York City, alongside the likes of Ricardo Pepi, Jordan Pefok, and Zack Steffen.
Unsurprisingly, the news hit Arriola hard, though he still vowed to back the USMNT as a fan.
“The past few days have been extremely difficult. Some of the hardest I’ve had in a while. I am heartbroken not to be included on the final World Cup roster,” Arriola said in a Twitter post.
“This year, my goal was to put myself in the best position possible to get to this point and I believe I did, unfortunately it wasn’t enough.
“Being around the national team for years, you learn that it is such a privilege to represent your country and I know I have never taken it for granted.
“The one thing I know for sure is that I will be rooting for my teammates when they play and I hope our country comes together to support this amazing group.
“Thank you to all who have reached out to me and sent their support.”
— Paul Arriola (@PaulArriola) November 10, 2022
In Arriola’s absence, the USMNT begin their Group B campaign against Wales on November 21, followed by fixtures against England (November 25), and Iran (November 29).
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