The October international break has concluded positively for the United States men’s national soccer team, highlighted by a 2-1 victory against Australia. Under the guidance of Mauricio Pochettino, faith in the team is being gradually restored, especially as they embark on a three-match unbeaten streak. The tactical switch to a back three has shown favorable results, signaling encouraging developments as we approach the World Cup.
Projected Roster for 2026
Goalkeepers (3): Matt Freese (New York City FC), Matt Turner (New England Revolution), Patrick Schulte (Columbus Crew)
Defenders (8): Sergino Dest (PSV), Antonee Robinson (Fulham), Miles Robinson (FC Cincinnati), Chris Richards (Crystal Palace), Tim Ream (Fulham), Alex Freeman (Orlando City SC), Max Arfsten (Columbus Crew), Mark McKenzie (Toulouse)
Midfielders (7): Weston McKennie (Juventus), Tyler Adams (Bournemouth), Diego Luna (Real Salt Lake), Luca De La Torre (San Diego FC), Cristian Roldan (Seattle Sounders), Malik Tillman (Bayer Leverkusen), Tanner Tessmann (Lyon)
Forwards (6): Christian Pulisic (Milan), Folarin Balogun (Monaco), Ricardo Pepi (PSV), Tim Weah (Marseille), Patrick Agyemang (Derby County), Haji Wright (Coventry City), Alex Zendejas (Club America)
Goalkeeper
Starter: Matt Freese
Backups: Matt Turner, Patrick Schulte
Freese is starting to solidify his position, demonstrating competence in recent matches, while the presence of Turner adds competition to the goalkeeper slot.
Right Wing Back
Starter: Sergino Dest
Backups: Alex Freeman, Tim Weah
Dest’s versatility is highly valued, though he needs to maintain fitness to ensure he can contribute fully during the tournament.
Center Back
Starters: Chris Richards, Tim Ream, Miles Robinson
Backups: Mark McKenzie
The central defense presents challenges, needing solid backup arrangements without a reduction in quality.
Left Wing Back
Starter: Antonee Robinson
Backup: Max Arfsten, Sergino Dest
Robinson has established himself as an essential player, but his backup’s performance might significantly influence final roster decisions.
Central Midfield
Starters: Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie
Backups: Tanner Tessmann, Cristian Roldan, Luca De La Torre
Adams remains a crucial player whom the team misses during injuries, with players like Roldan impressing recently.
Attacking Midfield
Starter: Malik Tillman
Backups: Diego Luna
Tillman’s adaptation at Bayer Leverkusen is providing confidence that he could pivot the offensive strategies.
Forwards
Starters: Folarin Balogun, Christian Pulisic
Backups: Tim Weah, Haji Wright, Ricardo Pepi, Patrick Agyemang, Alex Zendejas
The depth in forward positions raises questions about lineup flexibility, with expected performances under scrutiny as the team prepares for match play.
