USMNT's 2026 World Cup Roster Take Shape: Pochettino's Strategic Insights

The experimentation for the United States men’s national team is over after a September international window that saw them defeat a rotated Japan side while falling to South Korea. The USMNT did break out a new formation with a back three against Japan, which was a positive, but raises questions about how the roster will look for the upcoming World Cup. A back three might provide necessary defensive cover, yet it could also lead to fewer midfielders needed in the lineup.

Playing time challenges persist, especially with players like Weston McKennie, Yunus Musah, and Gio Reyna not consistently featuring for their clubs. However, with some key players securing moves during the summer transfer window, their situations could improve. Mauricio Pochettino will have to consider each player’s talent, fit within the team, current form, and playing time as he navigates the complexities of club versus international management.

USMNT roster locks

A group of players expected to start in the squad includes:

Sergino Dest (Defender)
Weston McKennie (Midfielder)
Christian Pulisic (Forward)
Tyler Adams (Midfielder)
Antonee Robinson (Defender)
Folarin Balogun (Forward)
Chris Richards (Defender)
Tim Ream (Defender)
Matt Freese (Goalkeeper)

While spots increasingly tighten, fewer players seem secure for the upcoming World Cup. Players like Weston McKennie might be at risk of exclusion if they do not play in the October international window, while Sergino Dest is still anticipated to contribute significantly.

Players on the bubble

This group includes potential roster members who are making cases for their inclusion:

Luca De La Torre (Midfielder)
Matt Turner (Goalkeeper)
Miles Robinson (Defender)
Malik Tillman (Midfielder)
Patrick Agyemang (Forward)
Gio Reyna (Forward)

On the outside looking in

The following players find themselves at risk of missing the squad:

Jack McGlynn (Midfielder)
Yunus Musah (Midfielder)
Josh Sargent (Forward)
Zack Steffen (Goalkeeper)

2026 roster projection

Goalkeepers (3): Matt Freese, Matt Turner, Patrick Schulte.
Defenders (8): Sergino Dest, Antonee Robinson, Miles Robinson, Chris Richards, Tim Ream, Alex Freeman, Max Arfsten, Tristan Blackmon.
Midfielders (7): Weston McKennie, Tyler Adams, Diego Luna, Luca De La Torre, Sebastian Berhalter, Malik Tillman, Johnny Cardoso.
Forwards (6): Christian Pulisic, Folarin Balogun, Ricardo Pepi, Tim Weah, Patrick Agyemang, Haji Wright, Gio Reyna.