The aspirations, the defense, and the camaraderie within the locker room are crucial elements as the U.S. men’s national team prepares for the 2026 World Cup. Each of the 26 players chosen will significantly influence the team’s journey, though some will have an even greater impact.
FOX Sports analysts, including former U.S. stars Landon Donovan, Stu Holden, Cobi Jones, and Alexi Lalas, will identify four key players expected to drive the USMNT towards success in the upcoming 48-team tournament.
Christian Pulisic
Age: 27
Position: Forward
Club: AC Milan (Italy)
Stu Holden: Christian Pulisic stands out as the most essential player for the U.S. team. His performance can determine how far America goes in the tournament. As knockout matches typically feature closely matched teams, having reliable goal-scorers like Pulisic is vital, especially as we saw in Qatar. Reflecting on previous tournaments, Landon Donovan’s heroics in 2010 showcased the importance of having a player who can make a decisive play—Pulisic is that player for this team.
Folarin Balogun
Age: 24
Position: Forward
Club: AS Monaco (France)
Landon Donovan: Seeing Folarin Balogun play live highlighted his unique talents; he’s a standout among forwards. While others have potential, Balogun brings a different perspective to the game and possesses an instinctive ability in the box. If he remains fit, he could significantly change the game’s dynamics alongside Pulisic.
Chris Richards
Age: 25
Position: Defender
Club: Crystal Palace (England)
Alexi Lalas: Chris Richards didn’t catch my attention initially, but his growth has been remarkable, and he’s poised to be a starter. It’s crucial to have a solid defense as the competition intensifies. His friendly demeanor and resilient spirit will be vital assets on soccer’s biggest stage.
Weston McKennie
Age: 27
Position: Midfielder
Club: Juventus (Italy)
Cobi Jones: Weston McKennie’s energy and playfulness are essential to the team’s dynamics. Known as the “Fun Cannon,” he embodies the spirit of enjoying the game while contributing significantly. His versatile playing style allows him to adapt and make crucial contributions wherever needed on the field.
Fan Take: This news is pivotal for soccer enthusiasts as it highlights key players who can elevate the USMNT’s performance on an international stage. Success in the 2026 World Cup could usher in a new era for American soccer, inspiring the next generation of players and fans alike.
