As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) is preparing for a critical period. Head coach Mauricio Pochettino recently emphasized that no player, including star Christian Pulisic, is guaranteed a place on the roster. This uncertainty reflects his commitment to foster competition among players ahead of the tournament.
Recent Friendlies and Training Camp Insights
In October, Pochettino convened his top players for a training camp that included a 1-1 draw against Ecuador and a 2-1 victory over Australia. These matches have begun to clarify potential roster spots as the World Cup nears.
Position-by-Position Roster Breakdown
With about seven months remaining before final roster decisions, here’s an overview of potential selections categorized by position.
Goalkeepers
- Locks: None
- Confident Picks: Matt Freese, Matt Turner
- Additional Considerations: Chris Brady, Roman Celentano, Diego Kochen, Patrick Schulte, Zack Steffen, Jonathan Klinsmann
The goalkeeper position remains wide open. Pochettino noted Freese’s emergence as a contender for the starting spot, especially given his recent performances. However, competition is intense, with all goalkeepers having a chance to impress ahead of the World Cup.
Center Backs
- Locks: Chris Richards, Tim Ream
- Confident Picks: None
- Additional Considerations: Cameron Carter-Vickers, Mark McKenzie, Miles Robinson, Walker Zimmerman
Richards and Ream have been steadfast in their positions. However, the depth behind them is uncertain, especially with Pochettino’s evolving tactical approach. The team may benefit from selecting five center backs given their recent formations.
Fullbacks/Wingbacks
- Locks: Sergiño Dest, Antonee Robinson
- Confident Picks: None
- Additional Considerations: Max Arfsten, Alex Freeman, Joe Scally
The fullback situation is complicated by injuries. If Dest and Robinson are healthy, their positions are secure. However, emerging talents like Arfsten and Freeman are vying for opportunities within the squad.
Central Midfielders
- Locks: Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie
- Confident Picks: Tanner Tessmann
- Additional Considerations: Sebastian Berhalter, Johnny Cardoso, Aidan Morris, Yunus Musah, Cristian Roldan
Adams and McKennie are pivotal to the team’s success. The competition for backup roles is keen, particularly with players like Tessmann benefitting from recent performances. Musah’s contributions will also be watched closely as he works his way back from previous absences.
Attacking Midfielders/Wingers
- Locks: Christian Pulisic, Malik Tillman, Tim Weah
- Confident Picks: Diego Luna
- Additional Considerations: Brenden Aaronson, Luca de la Torre, Jack McGlynn, Gio Reyna, Alejandro Zendejas
This position is challenging to predict beyond the three locks. Pochettino values Luna’s energy, but the need for players who can change games is critical at the World Cup. Factors such as current form and situational usage will heavily influence selections.
Strikers
- Locks: Folarin Balogun
- Confident Picks: None
- Additional Considerations: Patrick Agyemang, Ricardo Pepi, Josh Sargent, Brian White, Haji Wright
Balogun has quickly positioned himself as the starting striker. His performance, along with Wright’s recent contributions, has raised questions about the depth of the striker pool. The upcoming months will clarify who joins them in the final roster.
Projected 26-Man Roster for the 2026 World Cup
Based on current evaluations, the following players are projected to represent the USMNT:
| Position | Players |
|---|---|
| Goalkeepers | Matt Freese, Patrick Schulte, Matt Turner |
| Center Backs | Tim Ream, Chris Richards, Mark McKenzie, Miles Robinson, Walker Zimmerman |
| Fullbacks/Wingbacks | Max Arfsten, Sergiño Dest, Alex Freeman, Antonee Robinson |
| Central Midfielders | Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie, Yunus Musah, Cristian Roldan, Tanner Tessmann |
| Attacking Midfielders/Wingers | Brenden Aaronson, Diego Luna, Christian Pulisic, Malik Tillman, Tim Weah |
| Strikers | Patrick Agyemang, Folarin Balogun, Ricardo Pepi, Haji Wright |
As the USMNT looks to solidify its roster, performances in upcoming friendlies against Paraguay and Uruguay will be vital. The landscape remains fluid, with call-ups still available for players outside this initial projection.
