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Before the U.S. men’s national team triumphed over Uruguay 5-1 in Tampa last week, a trusted insider shared something intriguing. “At least one notable player is set to miss this World Cup,” they stated.
This remark lingered in my mind as the U.S. put on a remarkable performance, scoring goal after goal. U.S. national team manager Mauricio Pochettino emphasized that there’s no fixed “starter” on his roster, reflecting a significant shift in team dynamics.
Pochettino employed 20 different players during his team’s impressive victories against Uruguay and Paraguay this month. The win against Uruguay was particularly striking, showcasing the U.S. Men’s National Team’s evolution since Pochettino took over, as he guides the squad steadily toward the 2026 World Cup on home soil.
The coach’s ability to achieve such results despite injuries to key players like Christian Pulisic, Tyler Adams, and Chris Richards demonstrates the depth of talent being cultivated under his leadership, indicating that they can compete with the best in June and July.
However, this situation introduces a quandary. With only 26 roster spots for the World Cup, some deserving players may not make the cut.
As the U.S. team has been on a break for the past four months, competition for spots will heat up in domestic and international matches. The 71 players Pochettino has evaluated over his first 14 months will vie for one last opportunity to impress in March, with matches against Belgium and Portugal offering a final chance to secure a place before the World Cup squad is finalized.
Who will earn a spot, and will any of the standout players from the last World Cup miss out this time? Here are our insights on the current player situation:
Goalkeeper
Starter: Matt Freese
Backup: Matt Turner, Patrick Schuldt
Just Missed: Chris Brady, Roman Celentano, Ethan Horvath, Jonathan Klinsmann, Diego Kochen, Zach Steffen
The day before facing Uruguay, coach Toni Jimenez focused on training Freese, Schulte, Celentano, and Klinsmann. During this, I humorously suggested to recently retired goalkeeper Brad Guzan—who was present for the matches—that he still had what it takes to compete. Guzan, now 41, chuckled at the notion, highlighting the growing concern over the program’s depth at this position.
It seems Pochettino is clearly backing Freese for the World Cup, aiming to give him plenty of experience ahead of the tournament. If Freese isn’t selected in November, Turner stands out as the strong second option, given his extensive experience with the national team. However, with Steffen sidelined for 14 months, Schulte appears to be a default third choice, while Cohen could emerge as a surprise if he performs well in upcoming club games.
Center Back
Starter: Chris Richards, Tim Ream
Backup: Mark McKenzie, Miles Robinson, Auston Trusty
Just Missed: Noakai Banks, Tristan Blackmon, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Walker Zimmerman
Recent matches solidified Richards and Ream as Pochettino’s preferred center-back duo, especially with the U.S. employing a four-man defensive line after earlier experimenting with a three-back setup. The two goals against Uruguay weren’t due to individual errors but rather lapses in team defense, a point of concern for Pochettino.
With Richards sidelined recovering from a calf injury and Ream resting, McKenzie and Trusty stepped in and performed capably. Trusty’s consistent presence has warranted a place in the World Cup squad, while 18-year-old Banks is making waves in the Bundesliga, making him a player to watch.
Full Back
Starter: Max Arksten, Alex Freeman
Backup: John Tolkien, Tim Ware
Just Missed: Christopher Rand, Anthony “Jedi” Robinson, Joe Scully
If healthy, Robinson is likely to be the first choice, but Arksten’s strong performances have established him as a solid alternative on the left. Meanwhile, Freeman’s stellar two-goal game against Uruguay may see him shifted to a different role as Weah continues to adapt in a more conservative position at right wing-back.
Jedi’s injury issues have caused a shift in the squad, necessitating the call-up of someone like Tolkien, who showcased his capabilities in the team’s last match of the year.
Midfield Retention
Starter: Tyler Adams, Tanner Tessman
Backup: Sebastian Berhalter, Cristian Roldan
Just Missed: Johnny Cardoso, Gianluca Busio, Luca de la Torre, Aidan Morris, Yunus Musah, Timmy Tillman
After scoring a goal off the bench against Uruguay, Tessman is making his case as a vital part of the midfield. Adams missed November’s game but has returned to club duties, which is reassuring for fans. Berhalter’s standout goal likely secures him a spot in the World Cup roster, while Roldan continues to be a game-changer.
Players like Cardoso and Musah need to find consistent playing time to stay relevant in the squad selection.
Winger/Attacking Midfielder
Starter: Sergiño Dest, Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie
Backup: Brenden Aaronson, Diego Luna, Gio Reyna, Malik Tillman
Just Missed: Alex Zendejas
Dest has been more effective in an attacking role recently, showcasing his ability to contribute on both ends. McKennie’s performance continues to impress, with several Americans recently finding the net for their clubs, making for healthy competition.
Reyna’s goal against Paraguay has boosted his standing, and if he can maintain his fitness, he could be a valuable asset during the tournament.
Striker
Starter: Folarin Balogun
Backup: Ricardo Pepi, Hadji Wright
Just Missed: Patrick Agyeman, Damion Downs, Brian White, Josh Sargent
Balogun is on fire, scoring crucial goals during his starts. Pepi has struggled to find his place consistently, while Wright’s recent injury may hinder his progress.
Agyemang is rising as a contender, especially after solid performances in the English lower leagues.
In summary, these developments matter deeply to soccer fans as they watch how the U.S. Men’s National Team readies itself for a potentially pivotal World Cup. The depth of talent and ongoing rivalries could reshape soccer in the country, heralding a new era of competition and excitement on the global stage.
This reflects the essence of the original content while providing a succinct summary and a commentary regarding its importance to fans of soccer.
