The last time we evaluated this scenario, we began by discussing why the significance of formations in soccer is often overstated. Given that the initial setup of teams carries little weight, and that the U.S. men’s national team hasn’t played a match in nearly three months, let’s explore the likelihood that U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino might alter the lineup for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the opening match against Paraguay scheduled for June 12 at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.

Although Pochettino’s past teams, such as the Tottenham Hotspur squad, typically featured four defenders, this does not necessarily dictate his approach with the national team. Pochettino’s pragmatic nature was on display during his first press conference with the U.S. in October 2024:

“People sometimes say, ‘That’s my philosophy, my idea, and I’m going to die with my idea.’ No. I want to live. I want to be clever, and I want to win. I don’t want to die.”

Utilizing three center-backs and two wingbacks might be the best strategy to enhance the skill set available to Pochettino next summer. His colleagues at Fox and former U.S. World Cup players Stu Holden and Alexi Lalas support this idea, a sentiment echoed by many others.

Determining how the United States will configure their team in late March will be crucial, as they are set to face Belgium and Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal in their final preparations before naming the World Cup squad. Here’s my projection for the 26-player roster and the starting lineup against Paraguay.