The recent international summer break for the USMNT has been quite eventful. The squad faced scrutiny over player choices during the CONCACAF Gold Cup and suffered a letdown in the championship match against Mexico. However, this phase also presented an opportunity for Mauricio Pochettino to assess his players in competitive scenarios, highlighting areas needing improvement as the 2026 World Cup approaches.
Concerns around playing time continue to linger, but there’s a pressing need to balance this with the players’ skill levels. Each player’s situation should be evaluated individually, as increased game time can enhance performance and readiness for the upcoming World Cup, which is less than a year away.
USMNT Roster Trends
A significant factor affecting the depth of the USMNT pool is the availability of certain players who are expected to contribute if fit. Key potential starters include:
- Sergino Dest (Defender)
- Weston McKennie (Midfielder)
- Christian Pulisic (Forward)
- Tyler Adams (Midfielder)
- Antonee Robinson (Defender)
- Folarin Balogun (Forward)
- Chris Richards (Defender)
Notably, this list does not feature any goalkeepers. Matt Turner remains inconsistent in terms of playtime, putting his status in jeopardy as he might not fit into Pochettino’s plans. This situation reveals much about the U.S. team’s goalkeeping and defensive struggles from recent performances.
While Dest’s reliability as a defender is questionable given his lack of games under Pochettino, his return from injury could mitigate the absence of another right-back. The current USMNT landscape is highly competitive, with room for two forwards, three defenders, and two midfielders in the projected lineup. Malik Tillman is on the cusp of securing a stable position, but limited playtime at Bayer Leverkusen may risk his World Cup involvement. Tim Ream, despite his experience at 37, might not be able to solidify his place until officially named.
In midfield, the trio of Yunus Musa, Adams, and McKennie seemed set for the World Cup, yet Musa’s recent struggles could impact his future selection.
Contenders and Bubble Players
A few players are on the fringe of making the cut:
- Luca de la Torre (Midfielder): His trajectory fluctuates, particularly after his return to MLS, as he competes with Musa for a national team spot.
- Matt Turner (Goalkeeper): His lack of playtime raises concerns yet again. If his rumored move to Lyon doesn’t materialize, he must find consistent playing time to maintain his status.
- Miles Robinson (Defender): After missing the 2022 World Cup, he returns but may not see much action without experience.
- Malik Tillman (Midfielder): Following a breakthrough move to Bayer Leverkusen, he’s at a pivotal juncture, seeking playing time for a USMNT role next year.
- Patrick Agyeman (Forward): His recent call-up, coupled with his performance at Derby County, allows him to showcase his skills in the UK Championship.
- Matt Freese (Goalkeeper): Seen as a new talent, his recent performances have improved his chances of inclusion.
Additional forwards, such as Ricardo Pepi, Tim Weah, and Haji Wright, have significant seasons ahead as they attempt to secure a World Cup spot despite competition.
Other players to watch include Joe Scally, Max Arfsten, and Johnny Cardoso, who could prove crucial in their respective roles, especially with depth in defense and midfield being a concern for the team.
Emerging Roster Predictions
For the 2026 World Cup, the projected squad includes:
Goalkeepers (3): Matt Freese (NYCFC), Matt Turner (Crystal Palace), Patrick Schulte (Columbus Crew).
Defenders (8): Sergino Dest (PSV), Antonee Robinson (Fulham), Miles Robinson (FC Cincinnati), Chris Richards (Crystal Palace), Tim Ream (Fulham), Joe Scally (Borussia Monchengladbach), Max Arfsten (Columbus Crew), John Tolkin (Holstein Kiel).
Midfielders (7): Weston McKennie (Juventus), Tyler Adams (Bournemouth), Diego Luna (Real Salt Lake), Luca de la Torre (San Diego FC), Sebastian Berter (Vancouver Whitecaps), Malik Tillman (Bayer Leverkusen), Johnny Cardoso (Real Betis).
Forwards (6): Christian Pulisic (Milan), Folarin Balogun (Monaco), Ricardo Pepi (PSV), Tim Weah (Juventus), Patrick Agyeman (Derby County), Haji Wright (Coventry City).
Fan Take: The upcoming World Cup holds immense significance for US soccer fans, with the potential for fresh talent to help redefine the team’s trajectory. The evolving roster and player situations underscore the importance of consistency and competition, making the next year crucial for establishing a formidable squad capable of making a significant impact on the global stage.
