The path to the 2026 World Cup is looking increasingly promising for the U.S. men’s national team. With the tournament just six months away, coach Mauricio Pochettino believes in the potential of his squad, especially after they finished 2025 undefeated in their last five matches. Following strong performances against Paraguay and Uruguay, the upcoming challenges against Belgium and Portugal should serve as valuable tests for the players. This provides an excellent opportunity for the team to showcase their skills against top-tier competition.
The USMNT’s roster is undergoing some changes, particularly regarding players struggling for consistent playing time, like Yunus Musa and Gio Reyna. However, Pochettino’s clear tactical vision makes it a critical time to evaluate the squad as the June World Cup opener approaches.
USMNT Roster Guarantees
The roster pool is tightening, but certain players are strong contenders to remain in a healthy state.
- GK: Matt Freeze
- DEF: Tim Ream, Chris Richards, Anthony Robinson, Sergino Dest
- MID: Weston McKennie, Tyler Adams
- FW: Christian Pulisic, Folarin Balogun
These players are expected to form the core of the World Cup team, assuming fitness levels are optimal. It’s crucial for their performance to peak, particularly with Tyler Adams recovering from an injury, which could impact his readiness when the tournament kicks off.
If any player were to slip from this elite group, it might be Weston McKennie, who has missed recent international breaks but looks set to return to action with Juventus. Malik Tillman could also find a secure spot, although his past injury concerns raise some doubts.
Goalkeeper Matt Freeze seems to be our number one option, especially since Matt Turner has not been preferred despite being fit.
Potential Roster Players
A number of players are on the cusp of joining the main roster:
- Cristian Roldan (midfielder): Roldan has demonstrated leadership and a pivotal role in the transition game.
- Roman Celentano (goalkeeper): A strong performer for FC Cincinnati, but with limited national team appearances.
- Miles Robinson (defender): Pochettino values Robinson for his defensive capabilities.
- Malik Tillman (midfielder): He continues to shine post-injury.
- Auston Trusty (defender): With Celtic adopting a new system, Trusty is anticipated to adapt well.
- Gio Reyna (forward): His talent remains a considerable asset for the lineup, despite fluctuating club position.
- Tanner Tesseman (midfielder): Versatile and improves with playtime at Lyon.
There are several other players, like Ricardo Pepi and Haji Wright, who are also fighting for a spot, showing the depth and competition within the team.
External Watch List
A few players are still outside the projected squad but could make an impact if circumstances change:
- Yunus Moussa (midfielder): Needs more game time at Atalanta.
- Jack McGlynn (midfielder): Recovering from injury but has the skills for a World Cup bid.
- Noakai Banks (defender): Highly rated by Pochettino but yet to earn his first cap.
- Joe Scully (defender): Will have to enhance his performance to get playing time.
- Matt Turner (goalkeeper): His future in the squad remains uncertain even with consistent club performance.
- Johnny Cardoso (midfielder): Needs to solidify his place in the lineup at Atletico Madrid.
Projected 2026 Roster
- Goalkeepers (3): Matt Freese, Roman Celentano, Patrick Schulte.
- Defenders (9): Sergino Dest, Anthony Robinson, Miles Robinson, Chris Richards, Tim Ream, Alex Freeman, Max Arksten, Auston Trusty, Mark McKenzie.
- Midfielders (7): Weston McKennie, Tyler Adams, Diego Luna, Brenden Aaronson, Sebastian Berhalter, Malik Tillman, Christian Roldan, Tanner Tesseman.
- Forwards (7): Christian Pulisic, Folarin Balogun, Ricardo Pepi, Tim Weah, Haji Wright, Gio Reyna, Patrick Agyeman.
This news is significant because it showcases the growth of soccer in the U.S. as they prepare to host the World Cup. Strong performances in upcoming matches could not only put the U.S. team on the global stage but also elevate interest and support for soccer in the region.
