As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, fans are eagerly anticipating how the U.S. men’s national team will line up for their opening match against Paraguay on June 12.

Predictions for the U.S. 2026 World Cup Roster

Alexi Lalas, a soccer analyst for FOX Sports, recently shared his insights on the athletes he believes will form part of the starting lineup under manager Pochettino. Lalas foresees a formation featuring a three-man defense comprising Tim Ream, Chris Richards, and Miles Robinson, with wingbacks Sergino Dest and Antonee “Jedi” Robinson.

Predicted Lineup

The team has been exploring various defensive strategies, as evidenced by Pochettino’s adjustments during previous matches. Following a three-defender setup in September, Pochettino saw success with it in subsequent games, culminating in victories with a four-defender approach in the late-year matches against Paraguay and Uruguay.

If he sticks to a three or four-man defense, expect Richards and Ream to anchor the center back positions. Richards recently earned the title of 2025 U.S. Male Soccer Player of the Year following a breakout performance in the Gold Cup and a victorious season with Crystal Palace.

The midfield trio is likely to include Weston McKennie and Tyler Adams, both seasoned veterans from the last World Cup, complemented by Malik Tillman, who shone during the 2025 Gold Cup. Up front, Folarin Balogun will likely serve as the lone striker with Christian Pulisic operating as a dynamic left winger. Lalas highlights the need for Pulisic’s versatility and dynamic play to drive the U.S. towards a successful World Cup run.