Following a remarkable 5-1 victory over Uruguay, speculation grows around the potential exclusion of notable players from the upcoming World Cup roster. Coach Mauricio Pochettino made it evident that there are no guaranteed spots in his lineup.

Mauricio Pochettino and the USMNT wrapped up 2025 with two wins.

Mauricio Pochettino and the USMNT wrapped up 2025 with two wins. (Photo by John Dorton/ISI Photos/USSF/Getty Images)

Pochettino utilized 20 different players across matches against Uruguay and Paraguay, showcasing a depth to the squad that could withstand injuries to key figures like Christian Pulisic and Tyler Adams. The reality of only 26 spots available in the World Cup roster leaves many talented players at risk.

With the team temporarily inactive over the next few months, competition continues at the club level, and many will seek to impress during March friendlies against Belgium and Portugal, prior to the WC roster unveiling.

Current speculation runs rampant regarding who will secure a spot on the final roster, particularly with standout performances from players like Gio Reyna and Max Arfsten, who are vying for recognition.

Sections to Explore:

• Goalkeepers | Center Backs | Fullbacks | Holding Midfielders | Wingers/Attacking Midfielders | Strikers

Goalkeepers

Matt Freese remains looked in as the starter.

Matt Freese remains looked in as the starter. (Photo by Michael Pimentel/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images)

Center Backs

Tim Ream is looking like he’ll be commanding the backline in 2026.

Tim Ream is looking like he’ll be commanding the backline in 2026. (Photo by Terence Lewis/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Fullbacks

Alex Freeman is one of the USMNT breakout players.

Alex Freeman is one of the USMNT breakout players. (Photo by MIGUEL J. RODRIGUEZ CARRILLO/AFP via Getty Images)

Holding Midfielders

Tanner Tessmann is emerging as a viable option in a deep midfield.

Tanner Tessmann is emerging as a viable option in a deep midfield. (Photo by Eston Parker/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images)

Wingers/Attacking Midfielders

Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie are also locked in.

Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie are also locked in. (Photo by Omar Vega/Getty Images)

Strikers

Folarin Balogun keeps on scoring.

Folarin Balogun keeps on scoring. (Photo by John Dorton/ISI Photos/USSF/Getty Images)