2026 USMNT Player Rankings

Age: 26
Caps: 36
Goals: 3

Chris Richards

Birthplace: Birmingham, Alabama

1

Chris Richards Defender #3

Crystal Palace (ENG)

Chris Richards has taken the leap, using his closing speed and command to become Mauricio Pochettino’s top center back. Now a steady tackler and vocal leader, he’ll be asked to set the tone defensively against three different looks: Paraguay’s counters, Australia’s physicality, and a dangerous Türkiye side led by Arda Güler and Kenan Yıldız.

Strengths

Tackling
Leadership

Weaknesses

Passing
Durability

Data gathered by

CBRB

CB Center Back
RB Right Back

Chris Richards at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

A handful of players have wrestled for the title of the U.S.’ most important player at this World Cup, but as this summer’s tournament finally arrives, the crown rests firmly on Chris Richards’ head.

The center back has become a steady force at center back, exuding not just competence but confidence at the same time -- and a delightful sense of humor. He described center backs as “a little sick in the head” for their willingness to do soccer’s scut work, making him a professional and affable leader for the USMNT. He keeps the vibes high off the field, too -- he was part of a group of players who recently treated their England-born and bred teammates to Chili’s, intent on providing them with an authentically American experience. “The Triple Dipper you have to get, but then I think it’s the endless chips and salsa, but then also there’s sports on TV, and also the chocolate molten lava cake, and it’s just like you’re sitting there and you’re looking at the ground, the tile,” he recalled. “You’re like, this is beautiful. This is nostalgia. This is really America.”

Career Achievements

2025FA Cup Winner w/ Crystal Palace
2025-26UEFA Conference League Winner w/ Crystal Palace
2025U.S. Soccer Player of the Year
2019-20Bundesliga winner w/ Bayern Munich
2xCONCACAF Nations League Winner (2022-23, 2023-24)

Age: 27
Caps: 86
Goals: 33

Christian Pulisic

Birthplace: Hershey, Pennsylvania

2

Christian Pulisic Forward #10

A.C. Milan (ITA)

Still the heartbeat of this team, Christian Pulisic is the one who delivers on the biggest stage. The only American man to play and win a Champions League, he led the U.S. in chance creation in the 2022 World Cup. And in this tournament, the USMNT will go as far as he takes them.

Strengths

Finishing
Chance creation

Weaknesses

Consistency
Durability

Data gathered by

RWAMLWST

RW Right Winger
AM Attacking Midfielder
LW Left Winger
ST Striker

Christian Pulisic at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

If this is the USMNT's golden generation, Christian Pulisic has been the team's golden talent.

He was already part of the senior national team's set-up before he attended prom and has lived up to his potential in a lot of ways. He really started to prove himself as one of the sport's notable attackers with his move to AC Milan in 2023, enjoying a handful of career-best seasons there. The face of his generation of USMNT players, though, enters the World Cup in the midst of a rough patch. He has not scored for club or country since Dec. 28, playing 22 games during that stretch. It is a problem Pochettino attempted to solve in March, positioning the versatile Pulisic closer to the goal in the hopes of scoring in the 2-0 loss to Portugal. It didn't work that time, but Pochettino remained optimistic. "Unlucky, a shame a little bit that he didn't score with the opportunity that he has. It's normal," Pochettino said at the time. "Yes, he feels frustrated, but that is what we want, what we expect, but he was fighting, he was committed in the phases that we demand more, and then with the ball, he's going to score because he has the quality. I am sure that he is going to come back to his club, and in the moment he scores, he's going to start to score again."

Career Achievements

2020-21UEFA Champions League winner w/ Chelsea
2021FIFA Club World Cup winner w/ Chelsea
2021UEFA Super Cup winner w/ Chelsea
4xU.S. Soccer Male Player of the Year
3xCONCACAF Nations League winner
2022FIFA World Cup (1 goal, 2 assists)
33Career goals, 5th most in USMNT history

Age: 27
Caps: 54
Goals: 2

Tyler Adams

Birthplace: Wappinger, New York

3

Tyler Adams Midfielder #4

AFC Bournemouth (ENG)

Twenty-nine percent of the earth is covered by land—the rest is covered by Tyler Adams. His range unlocks everything for Mauricio Pochettino's midfield. With the deep-lying midfielder, the U.S. can go toe-to-toe with the best in the world. Without him, there are real questions.

Strengths

Anticipation
Tackling

Weaknesses

Passing
Durability

Data gathered by

DMCM

DM Defensive Midfielder
CM Center Midfielder

The USMNT are one team when Tyler Adams is on the pitch and another one entirely when he isn't.

The 2022 World Cup captain has spent much of the last four years on the sidelines with different injuries, no one in the depth chart able to unseat him as the presumed starter at the base of the U.S. midfield. It is an appropriate position for Adams to play -- he is the USMNT's metronome, a player so talented Pochettino tried to recruit him for his Chelsea side a year before he took the U.S. job. He boasts a natural poise on the field, visible even as a 16-year-old who scored his first goal by outdoing the Blues in a friendly months after they won the Premier League title. Adams has described himself as fearless, to the point that he is clear-eyed about what he wants to accomplish this summer. "The journey that we're on is growing the sport in America," he said last year after two crushing defeats in the Concacaf Nations League finals. "We're kind of trying to be the catalyst in doing that and with that, you need to have success so to give people optimism, obviously. I think for us, we need to make a bigger effort and [be] a team where people can get behind and support, whether it's through passion, whether it's through an amazing style of play, whether it's through winning games, scoring amazing goals, whatever it is, but winning breeds that optimism for sure."

Career Achievements

2022FIFA World Cup captain
2021-22DFB-Pokal winner w/ RB Leipzig
2xCONCACAF Nations League winner (2019-20, 2023-24)
2022U.S. Soccer Player of the Year

Age: 24
Caps: 27
Goals: 9

Folarin Balogun

Birthplace: New York, New York

4

Folarin Balogun Forward #20

AS Monaco (FRA)

Folarin Balogun thrives in tight spaces, shaping the game even without the ball by pulling defenders out of position. Give him a look, and he's putting a shot on goal. He's grown into a clinical finisher in France, and there's no doubt who will lead the line for the USMNT.

Strengths

Finishing
Ball control

Weaknesses

Pressing
Holdup play

Data gathered by

ST

ST Striker

Folarin Balogun at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

After another strong season for Monaco, Folarin Balogun is making a case for being the top-scoring American player ever in a top-five league.

With 45 goals in league play, he only trails Christian Pulisic (64) and Clint Dempsey (57) in half as many games played. Since Balogun has committed to the USMNT, that scoring has followed too. His ability to create space for himself to get shots off in tight areas is second to none in the squad, as for the first time in a while, the USMNT are entering the World Cup with a forward who should be feared. Integrating with the squad, Balogun is also stepping up as a leader. It's easy to forget that he's only 24, but performing under pressure from a young age will help Balogun in a World Cup on home soil, where the USMNT may face the most pressure of any team in the 48-team field. The narrative around this team has long been, "Oh, they do this well, but this team would be so great if they scored goals." Balogun is here to bring these goals and then some, even if he isn't touching the ball often.

Career Achievements

2xCONCACAF Nations League winner (2022-23, 2023-24)
19Goals in 43 apps for Monaco this season
9International goals for USA

Age: 27
Caps: 66
Goals: 12

Weston McKennie

Birthplace: Fort Lewis, Washington

5

Weston McKennie Midfielder #8

Juventus (ITA)

Weston McKennie is the ultimate Swiss Army knife for the USMNT. As Mauricio Pochettino put it, Juventus is “Weston McKennie plus 10.” It's a testament to how much ground he covers and how many roles he fills. From aerial threats to late runs to defensive work, he's here, he's there, he's everywhere.

Strengths

Unpredictability
Aerial duels

Weaknesses

Consistency
Dribbling

Data gathered by

CMRMAM

CM Center Midfielder
RM Right Midfielder
AM Attacking Midfielder

Weston McKennie at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

The heart and soul of the USMNT, you don't need to watch the team in action for long to see Weston McKennie's importance to the squad.

Some of his food takes may be controversial, but he keeps players motivated during training and pops up to do whatever is needed during a game. Pochettino has described Juventus as "Weston McKennie plus 10," which is a nod to his versatility playing almost every position but goalkeeper, but also his importance to the squad, where he has become one of the first names on the team sheet. Given that McKennie is coming off a season where he scored nine goals and assisted eight more, this could be a World Cup that puts McKennie through the stratosphere. Even if things aren't going well, he's not a player who lets it get to him, as he has had to fight to get back into the Juventus XI multiple times during his career. McKennie also brings a danger from set plays where he can lose his marker and score with a header, so for all the right reasons, he'll be a player who you can't take your eyes off of when watching the USMNT in action.

Career Achievements

2xCoppa Italia winner w/ Juventus (2021, 2024)
3xCONCACAF Nations League winner
2020U.S. Soccer Player of the Year
2022FIFA World Cup roster

Age: 28
Caps: 54
Goals: 5

Antonee Robinson

Birthplace: Milton Keynes, England

6

Antonee Robinson Defender #5

Fulham (ENG)

Antonee Robinson may have battled injuries this season, but he remains one of the first names on the USMNT team sheet. Whether he’s bombing forward in attack – like his thunderous left-footed volley in the Germany friendly – or inverting to reinforce midfield, his versatility is key, especially against compact defenses like Paraguay’s.

Strengths

Crossing
Tackling

Weaknesses

Durability
Aerial duels

Data gathered by

LB

LB Left Back

Antonee Robinson at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Antonee Robinson’s absence has been felt.

The England-born outside back is one of the Premier League’s best, but a long-term knee injury meant he went almost 18 months without playing for the national team, though he finally made his long-awaited return for the USMNT’s friendlies in March. He was a sight for sore eyes even amidst defeats to Belgium and Portugal, his dynamic attack-minded play on the flank offering a stark reminder of why he won U.S. Soccer’s male player of the year award after a successful stretch of matches in 2024. It was a relief for the player, too, after undergoing knee surgery last summer and being pestered by the injury months later. “There was no sort of certainty on my end that I was going to be fit and available and make it [to the World Cup] because it just seemed like there was kind of no light at the end of the tunnel but thankfully, I feel like I’m past that point now,” he said in March. “It’s really exciting to be back with the boys.” Just don’t call him Antonee – he has gone by “Jedi” since he was a child, even in professional settings, earning the nickname thanks to his affinity for the “Star Wars” films.

Career Achievements

2021-22EFL Championship winner
3xCONCACAF Nations League winner
2025U.S. Soccer Player of the Year
2022Played in the FIFA World Cup

Age: 25
Caps: 39
Goals: 3

Sergiño Dest

Birthplace: Almere, Netherlands

7

Sergiño Dest Defender #2

PSV Eindhoven (NED)

Sergiño Dest is a defender in name only. And that’s because his game lives in the final third as a winger or wingback. He even popped up centrally to score in the Senegal friendly, which is further proof of how dangerous and unpredictable he can be. If his fitness holds after a late hamstring issue, Dest could feast against Australia and Türkiye, sides that tend to concede more than most.

Strengths

Crossing
Shooting

Weaknesses

Tackling
Durability

Data gathered by

RBLB

RB Right Back
LB Left Back

Consider Sergiño Dest one of the missing pieces for a full-strength version of the USMNT.

He has only played four games for the national team since Pochettino took charge in the fall of 2024, while sidelined with a series of injuries, but returned to play in May with PSV and should be ready to go when the World Cup begins. The Netherlands-born outside back is destined to play a key role for the U.S. team -- he boasts an impressive pedigree, coming up through the prestigious Ajax academy in Amsterdam and later playing for Barcelona. Teammate Chris Richards once described him as “probably the most attacking fullback in the world,” making him a real asset for an attack-minded USMNT that will benefit from two very talented outside backs in Dest and Antonee Robinson. Dest is also known for his flair and might be good for one or two highlight-reel worthy moments this summer -- watch out for a nutmeg!

Career Achievements

3xEredivisie winner (2023-24, 2024-25, 2025-26)
2020-21Copa del Rey winner w/ Barcelona
3xCONCACAF Nations League winner
2019U.S. Soccer Young Male Athlete of the Year
2022Played in the FIFA World Cup (1 assist)

Age: 26
Caps: 51
Goals: 7

Tim Weah

Birthplace: Brooklyn, New York

8

Tim Weah Forward #21

Olympique Marseille (FRA)

One of the most unpredictable attackers in the pool, Tim Weah is never shy about pulling the trigger, which will keep goalkeepers honest. If he sees a shot from a long distance, he takes it. He’s also dangerous and confident in front of goal. Whether he starts or comes off the bench for Dest, Weah can flip the game instantly.

Strengths

Finishing
Dribbling

Weaknesses

Tackling
Crossing

Data gathered by

RWRMRB

RW Right Winger
RM Right Midfielder
RB Right Back

Tim Weah describes himself as the USMNT’s Swiss Army knife, boasting both a wide range of on-field talents as a winger and a wing back and a diverse set of off-field interests.

Weah has an appropriately layered personality for his unique origins -- he is one of three players on the U.S. World Cup team with a former player for a parent, Weah’s father, George, still the only African player to win the Ballon d’Or. Weah’s soccer story, though, is rooted in the lesser-known Queens neighborhood of Rosedale, where his family coalesced in a pocket of Caribbean communities familiar to his Jamaican mother Clar. He scored the USMNT’s first goal at the 2022 World Cup, but his favorite memories from Qatar were the small moments watching movies and TV with teammates he’s known since they were in their teens. His tastes vary, naturally -- “I watched the new ‘Dracula,’ absolutely loved it,” he said, referencing the film by French director Luc Besson. “I want to watch the Michael Jackson biopic. I haven’t watched that yet.” The foodie also has a fondness for cooking competition shows. “I love the Food Network. I watch Bobby Flay. I love it. I love ‘Iron Chef.’ There’s this new one – I don’t think it’s on the Food Network, but it’s this new one with Gordon Ramsay, ‘Next Level Chef’ … ‘Top Chef’ … It’s like a comfort watch. Food Network’s like a comfort watch for me because when I was a kid, I used to put it on all the time.”

Career Achievements

3xLigue 1 winner (2 w/ PSG, 1 w/ Lille)
2024Coppa Italia winner w/ Juventus
2018-19Scottish Premiership winner w/ Celtic
3xCONCACAF Nations League winner
2022Played in the FIFA World Cup (1 goal)

Age: 23
Caps: 37
Goals: 13

Ricardo Pepi

Birthplace: El Paso, Texas

9

Ricardo Pepi Forward #9

PSV Eindhoven (NED)

Ricardo Pepi is a menace on both sides of the ball – and arguably the best presser in the squad. He closes with instinct, forcing mistakes, and when he gets his chances, he finishes them. Off the bench for Folarin Balogun, Pepi could be a game-changer for the USMNT.

Strengths

Pressing
Finishing

Weaknesses

Physicality
Dribbling

Data gathered by

ST

ST Striker

Ricardo Pepi, missing the plane for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, was a surprise to many, but this season with PSV, he has done plenty to ensure that he can’t be left home again, scoring 19 goals for the club and not even letting a broken arm slow him down from contributing for his club or country.

Able to play as a lone forward using his speed to beat defenders, or alongside another attacker, he brings versatility and a hunger to the attack. With transfer rumors to Fulham also swirling, this World Cup is a chance for Pepi to be able to show the world what he can do while helping the squad to a strong performance on home soil.

Career Achievements

3xEredivisie winner (2023-24, 2024-25, 2025-26)
2xCONCACAF Nations League winner (2022-23, 2023-24)
2021MLS Young Player of the Year
13International goals for USA

Age: 23
Caps: 30
Goals: 3

Malik Tillman

Birthplace: Nuremberg, Germany

10

Malik Tillman Midfielder #17

Bayer Leverkusen (GER)

Malik Tillman can be one of the top creators in the squad when he finds space between the lines. Whether it’s delivering on set pieces, picking a pass, or testing from distance, he offers multiple ways to impact the game behind Folarin Balogun. If he’s given time on the ball, Tillman has the vision and technique to unlock defenses and bring others into the attack.

Strengths

Passing
Set pieces

Weaknesses

Physicality
Tackling

Data gathered by

CMAMLW

CM Center Midfielder
AM Attacking Midfielder
LW Left Winger

Malik Tillman at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Malik Tillman is perhaps the greatest beneficiary of Pochettino’s open-door policy.

The Germany-born midfielder was resigned to a spot warming the USMNT’s bench under ex-coach Gregg Berhalter, but became an important cog in the USMNT’s wheel during a transformational outing at last summer’s Concacaf Gold Cup. The U.S.’ attacking operation is likely to run through Tillman, who can pick out an impressive pass and has an eye for goal, too, crediting a foundational spell at PSV for his improved finishing and ability on free kicks -- and for paving the way for a move to Bayer Leverkusen as Florian Wirtz’s replacement. The move actually introduced him to Pochettino’s back three set-up before the national team coach implemented it, Tillman finding it to be a perfect fit for his skillset. “We want to have possession as much as possible,” he said about Pochettino’s tactical approach. “We want to score goals. We want to play an attractive, offensive football, so I think this suits me very well … I really like the system.”

Career Achievements

2021-22Bundesliga winner w/ Bayern Munich
2xEredivisie winner (2023-24, 2024-25) w/ PSV
2023-24CONCACAF Nations League winner
3Goals at the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup

Age: 38
Caps: 82
Goals: 1

Tim Ream

Birthplace: St. Louis, Missouri

11

Tim Ream (C) Defender #13

Charlotte FC (USA)

At 38, Tim Ream is living the dream, captaining the USMNT at a World Cup on home soil. One of the players Mauricio Pochettino trusts and leans on most, he anchors the back line with experience and leadership. Even without top-end speed, his positioning and the ability to read the game keep him a step ahead.

Strengths

Leadership
Anticipation

Weaknesses

Pace
Physicality

Data gathered by

CBLB

CB Center Back
LB Left Back

The USMNT’s elder statesman, 38-year-old Tim Ream, has been a mainstay as he watched his teammates come of age from the last World Cup to this one.

Ream presents himself as a conduit for the coaching staff to his fellow players and a calmly honest spokesman of sorts for all. His decade of work in England has earned him the respect of his teammates. “I’ve worked under a lot of different managers, a lot of different systems and what they’re doing here is not too dissimilar to what I did at Fulham for many, many years under Marco [Silva],” he noted after the U.S.’ 1-1 draw with Ecuador in October, reflecting on Pochettino’s switch to a back three that he later described as a “stroke of genius” from a tactical perspective. “For me, understanding and seeing the game from a different perspective, being a center back and being older, it doesn’t take long for me to grasp new ideas and tactics.” Ream may have another problem on his hands entirely – Father Time has been unkind to him in recent months, including in March’s defeat to Belgium, raising questions about whether or not the USMNT’s most consistent fixture will actually be in the lineup once the World Cup begins.

Career Achievements

2021-22EFL Championship winner w/ Fulham
2xCONCACAF Nations League winner (2019-20, 2023-24)
2022FIFA World Cup roster

Age: 27
Caps: 29
Goals: 0

Mark McKenzie

Birthplace: Bronx, New York

12

Mark McKenzie Defender #22

Toulouse FC (FRA)

With Chris Richards easing back from injury, Mark McKenzie is firmly in the mix for minutes. He’s composed playing out of the back and brings physicality to handle top forwards like Türkiye’s Kenan Yıldız. His development in France, playing for Toulouse, has been evident, and it’s translating on the international stage.

Strengths

Passing
Physicality

Weaknesses

Focus
Technique

Data gathered by

CBLBRB

CB Center Back
LB Left Back
RB Right Back

Mark McKenzie at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Moving to Toulouse in France in 2024 from Genk, Mark McKenzie’s game has taken a massive step forward as he earned regular playing time in a top league.

One of many players in this roster with MLS roots, coming from the Philadelphia Union system, McKenzie has yet to truly break out as a member of the national team, but making a World Cup roster for the first time in his career is a significant step. Someone who has also talked about the art of defending with Pochettino, it’s clear that McKenzie is doing what he can to soak up experience under the Argentine.

Career Achievements

2020MLS Best XI w/ Philadelphia Union
2xCONCACAF Nations League winner (2019-20, 2023-24)
2020-21Belgian Cup winner w/ Genk

Age: 28
Caps: 20
Goals: 7

Haji Wright

Birthplace: Los Angeles, California

13

Haji Wright Forward #19

Coventry City (ENG)

Did you know he was the last USMNT player to score in a World Cup knockout stage game? He’s a proven finisher who can play multiple roles up top and change a game off the bench. With his size and feel for goal, he’s a problem for defenders, especially in the late stages of a game. And by the way: Coventry doesn’t get promoted to the Premier League without Wright’s goals.

Strengths

Finishing
Dribbling

Weaknesses

Passing
Pressing

Data gathered by

STLW

ST Striker
LW Left Winger

Pochettino’s tenure with the USMNT will be defined by the chances he handed out to a wide variety of players, several grabbing those opportunities with both hands.

The list includes Haji Wright, who scored the U.S.’ last goal at a World Cup and returns to the tournament on the back of an 18-goal season for Coventry City. His road to the World Cup has been marred by injuries, but Wright has proven himself to be a capable option, truly standing out with both goals in a 2-1 win over Australia in October. “That is what we expect when you give the opportunity to the player, no?” Pochettino said at the time. “I think that is good news to have players that can compete for a spot in the World Cup. I think every time that we can have the possibility to provide the player -- maybe they didn’t play too much in the last year with us -- I think that is an important thing. It’s to say, ‘I am here and I want to play. I want to be part of this team,’ and with [a] performance like this, it’s for sure a player that performed like that, Haji can be close. It’s possible to be involved.”

Career Achievements

2025-26EFL Championship winner (promoted to the Premier League)
2023-24CONCACAF Nations League winner
1World Cup goal vs. Netherlands (Round of 16)

Age: 25
Caps: 58
Goals: 9

Brenden Aaronson

Birthplace: Medford, New Jersey

14

Brenden Aaronson Midfielder #11

Leeds United (ENG)

Brenden Aaronson is a pest, and I mean that in the best way possible. He presses, harasses, and forces mistakes, then turns them into chances going the other way. Against Paraguay, Australia, and Türkiye, his pressing can rattle defenses and create transitional chances before they’re set.

Strengths

Pressing
Versatility

Weaknesses

Finishing
Dribbling

Data gathered by

AM

AM Attacking Midfielder

Brenden Aaronson at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Not quite an eight and not quite a 10, Brenden Aaronson’s work rate has made up for his positionless play, keeping him in the lineup for Leeds United and in the mix for the national team.

Another player who has had to prove himself time and time again, Aaronson has rebounded from moments like Leeds fans booing him off the pitch to providing a little bit of everything with four goals and five assists in all competitions. Even when it seemed like the 25-year-old had fallen down Pochettino’s pecking order during the September international break, Aaronson has been able to be a menace when pressing and make sure that he brings plenty to a squad even when he isn’t scoring.

Career Achievements

2024-25EFL Championship winner
3xCONCACAF Nations League winner
2022Played in the FIFA World Cup

Age: 23
Caps: 26
Goals: 0

Joe Scally

Birthplace: Lake Grove, New York

15

Joe Scally Defender #23

Borussia Monchengladbach (GER)

Joe Scally’s club form hasn’t fully carried over to the national team, but his versatility across the back line gives Mauricio Pochettino valuable flexibility. A consistent starter in Germany, he’s seen just about everything, and that experience makes him a dependable option when called upon.

Strengths

Passing
Tackling

Weaknesses

Speed
Focus

Data gathered by

RB

RB Right Back

No matter the national team, World Cup rosters are usually made up of players with multiple skillsets and Joe Scally fits the bill from that standpoint.

The 23-year-old, one of the team’s young veterans who also made the trip to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, has historically played as a fullback for the national team and at the club level with Borussia Monchengladbach. Pochettino, though, has opted to use Scally as a center back in a back three, which might end up being his role at the World Cup if some of his teammates become unavailable. “I have a great relationship with the coach,” he said this month. “He just pretty much reiterates to play well at your club, get playing minutes, so I think that’s the main thing, to kind of just keep doing that. It puts me in the best possible place to be there at the World Cup and arrive at that 100%.” He will also have a friend along for the ride – he and Gio Reyna first befriended each other as products of New York City FC’s academy and are now teammates at ’Gladbach. “I think spending a lot of time off the field and my wife and his fiancée also becoming very close -- and also our dogs,” Reyna noted. “We were already close, but it feels like we’ve gotten even closer.”

Career Achievements

2xCONCACAF Nations League winner (2022-23, 2023-24)
2022FIFA World Cup roster

Age: 28
Caps: 14
Goals: 2

Alejandro Zendejas

Birthplace: Ciudad Juarez, Mexico

16

Alejandro Zendejas Forward #26

Club America (MEX)

Few expected Alejandro Zendejas to be called, but he played his way into this squad with standout form at Club América. Wearing the No. 10 for a club of that magnitude is no small task, and he’s answered it by creating, shooting, and running the attack. With the USMNT, he’ll need to keep that same approach, letting his play speak for itself, knowing he’s not an automatic starter.

Strengths

Creativity
Finishing

Weaknesses

Pace
Aerial duels

Data gathered by

RW

RW Right Winger

Alejandro Zendejas at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Out of the USMNT picture due to injuries since the September international break, when he scored off the bench against Japan, Alex Zendejas’ manager, Andre Jardine, has been one of the biggest leaders of the Zendejas to the World Cup campaign.

Jardine called Zendejas one of the best midfielders in Liga MX, and he followed that lead, scoring six goals and assisting three more in 2026 while closing out the season as one of the most in-form American attackers. Zendejas brings something different to the attack, being so comfortable shooting or setting up his teammates, and he’s not going to take anything for granted following the difficulty of performing while dealing with injuries. Pochettino has continued to state that the door is always open for players, and Zendejas’ making it to the World Cup does show that.

Career Achievements

2xLiga MX Apertura winner (2023, 2024)
2xLiga MX Clausura winner (2017, 2024)
2022-23CONCACAF Nations League winner
2025Liga MX All-Star

Age: 21
Caps: 17
Goals: 2

Alex Freeman

Birthplace: Baltimore, Maryland

17

Alex Freeman Defender #16

Villarreal (ESP)

Alex Freeman, the son of former NFL wide receiver Antonio Freeman, is growing into his role with each appearance. Operating as sort of a right-sided center back, even though he’s naturally a right back, Freeman provides cover that allows Sergiño Dest the freedom to push forward. It often leaves Freeman responsible for handling the entire right side defensively. Still refining his positioning, his attacking instincts and willingness to shoot add another dimension when he steps into the play.

Strengths

Shooting
Pace

Weaknesses

Tackling
Experience

Data gathered by

RB

RB Right Back

There may not be a player who has had a faster rise on the USMNT in the last year than Alex Freeman.

Just over a year ago, he was making his first start for Orlando City SC, and now he has qualified for Champions League soccer with Villarreal and is on the way to his first World Cup. Freeman has come a long way since his debut facing Turkiye, where the challenge of defending against Kenan Yildiz was a moment that showed he belongs and can compete at this level. Freeman has improved at every challenge that has come his way, and when it comes to the World Cup, that will be no different. Closing out the season, being able to make regular appearances for Villarreal showed his improvement in LaLiga and at the World Cup, he can rise to yet another challenge. Not only will he be a backup at wing back, but if push comes to shove, the 21-year-old defender may also need to be used as a third center back, showcasing his versatility.

Career Achievements

2022U.S. Open Cup winner w/ Orlando City
2025MLS Young Player of the Year
2025MLS Best XI

Age: 31
Caps: 47
Goals: 0

Cristian Roldan

Birthplace: Artesia, California

18

Cristian Roldan Midfielder #15

Seattle Sounders FC (USA)

Described by Mauricio Pochettino as a perfect midfielder, Cristian Roldan is one of the players he trusts and leans on most. A strong leader capable of filling multiple roles, he can sit deeper or operate box-to-box. While he’s not counted on for goals, Roldan excels at connecting play and turning defense into attack.

Strengths

Passing
Tackling

Weaknesses

Finishing
Physicality

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DMCM

DM Defensive Midfielder
CM Center Midfielder

Cristian Roldan at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Surprise standouts have had their moments on the USMNT’s road to the World Cup, Cristian Roldan amongst the most notable.

The 30-year-old was part of the U.S. team in Qatar but had fallen off the radar almost completely – until a last-minute call-up in September. The spotlight finally landed on him when he notched two assists in the USMNT’s 2-1 win over Australia in October, after which Pochettino said Roldan possessed the attributes of a “perfect player” if you were to build one from scratch. It was a validating outing for a player who has spent his whole career in MLS while many of his U.S. teammates had cut their teeth in Europe. “I never really got the chance to play against the very best in the world,” he said after that game against Australia. “I didn’t play in the World Cup in ’22. I didn’t play in some of the bigger games with the national team. I never left Seattle and played in Europe, played in these [UEFA] Champions League games … I’m playing, I feel like, the best of my career. Unfortunately, it’s at age 30. I wish it was a little younger, but it’s great that number one, I’m getting seen, that I’m getting involved in camps and now feeling like I’m a part of the team.”

Career Achievements

2xMLS Cup winner (2016, 2019)
2022CONCACAF Champions League winner
2025Leagues Cup winner
2xCONCACAF Gold Cup winner (2017, 2021)
2025MLS Best XI

Age: 27
Caps: 8
Goals: 0

Auston Trusty

Birthplace: Media, Pennsylvania

19

Auston Trusty Defender #6

Celtic (SCO)

Auston Trusty is making a push up the center back depth chart. Tested in multiple leagues across Europe, he’s strong in the air, composed on the ball, and a real threat on set pieces when the U.S. needs a goal. Against Paraguay’s physicality and counters, Australia’s aerial attacks, and Türkiye’s technical buildup, he’ll need to handle a range of attacking styles.

Strengths

Aerial duels
Passing

Weaknesses

Focus
Fouling

Data gathered by

CB

CB Center Back

Auston Trusty at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Auston Trusty has had a wild ride in Europe, from being part of one of the worst defenses in Premier League history with Sheffield United to representing Celtic in Champions League play.

Because of his experience, there isn’t much that he hasn’t seen before, despite only being 27. Going through three managers and needing a final-day victory to win the Scottish Premiership title is something that has helped Trusty develop strong nerves, which will serve him well with the pressure of the World Cup on his shoulders. Trusty is also another player who will look for a strong showing in pre-World Cup friendlies in order to earn the third starting center back role ahead of facing Paraguay to kick off the group stage.

Career Achievements

2xScottish Premiership winner (2024-25, 2025-26)
2025-26Scottish Cup winner
2022CONCACAF Nations League winner

Age: 31
Caps: 54

Matt Turner

Birthplace: Park Ridge, New Jersey

20

Matt Turner Goalkeeper #1

New England Revolution (USA)

Matt Turner may not be flashy, but he delivers consistency in goal. He makes the saves he’s expected to, and occasionally the ones he’s not, while providing a steady, reliable presence. A strong communicator, he brings organization and trust to the back line if he’s called upon ahead of the other goalkeepers.

Strengths

Shot stopping
Punching

Weaknesses

Command of the box
Footwork
Passing

Data gathered by

GK

GK Goalkeeper

Matt Turner returns to the World Cup, this time as Freese’s understudy after serving as the starter in 2022.

His origin story is unusual – he did not get serious about soccer until his late teens, when his peers were already on professional pathways, and went unselected in the 2016 MLS SuperDraft. After a few trying years in Europe, he is now back at the club where he broke out, the New England Revolution, and might just be the most in-form goalkeeper on the USMNT. In his last outing in U.S. colors, though, a chance to overtake Freese came and went – he started the USMNT’s 5-2 loss to Belgium in March, things not going to plan even if it would be hard to lay the blame at his feet. “I’ve stood in front of here and criticized myself many times but tonight, I felt like I did have some really good moments,” he said that evening. “I was able to make some good saves. I just wish I could have one or two of ’em back because I don’t think the scoreline really reflected the balance and flow of the game.”

Career Achievements

2022FIFA World Cup (all 360 minutes for USA)
2021CONCACAF Gold Cup winner
2xCONCACAF Nations League winner (2022-23, 2023-24)
2021MLS Goalkeeper of the Year & Best XI
2024-25FA Cup winner w/ Crystal Palace

Age: 23
Caps: 38
Goals: 9

Gio Reyna

Birthplace: Sunderland, England

21

Gio Reyna Midfielder #7

Borussia Monchengladbach (GER)

Not many expected to see a Reyna and a Berhalter together again after 2022 – but here they are. The focus is now on what he can do on the field. Injuries have limited Reyna this season, but at his best, he’s the most dangerous dribbler on the team. He can take it box-to-box and unlock defenses with a single pinpointed pass, even in limited minutes.

Strengths

Dribbling
Passing

Weaknesses

Work rate
Durability

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AMRW

AM Attacking Midfielder
RW Right Winger

Gio Reyna might just be the most naturally gifted player in the USMNT’s player pool, but between a string of injuries, limited playing time at the club level, and a family feud, there was no guarantee he would make the cut for this summer’s World Cup.

He seemed to know as much, too, in the final weeks before the squad was named, but was eager to make the point that he was willing to play whichever part was assigned to him. “Keep it pretty simple – I love the staff. I love the players,” he said earlier this month. “I love the national team. Obviously, whatever happens, happens. Really hoping and wanting to be there to make an impact and achieve something great with the team, but the decision is out of my hands and obviously just really hoping and waiting for the call-up.” Reyna’s inclusion, though, feels like a signal that Pochettino values natural talent above all else -- even if onlookers have only been treated to glimpses of it over a stretch of several years.

Career Achievements

2020-21DFB-Pokal winner w/ Borussia Dortmund
2023-24UEFA Champions League runner-up w/ Borussia Dortmund
3xCONCACAF Nations League winner
2020U.S. Soccer Young Male Player of the Year
2022Played in the FIFA World Cup

Age: 25
Caps: 13
Goals: 1

Sebastian Berhalter

Birthplace: London, England

22

Sebastian Berhalter Midfielder #14

Vancouver Whitecaps FC (USA)

Described by Mauricio Pochettino as someone who gives “200%,” Sebastian Berhalter’s energy shows every time he steps on the pitch. He brings intensity and quality in equal measure, striking the ball well from open play and set pieces. If the USMNT needs a goal out of nothing, Berhalter has the technique to deliver it.

Strengths

Finishing
Workrate

Weaknesses

Defending
Pace

Data gathered by

DMCM

DM Defensive Midfielder
CM Center Midfielder

Sebastian Berhalter at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Compared to his teammates, who had started their national team careers in their early 20s, Sebastian Berhalter is a bit of a late bloomer.

The midfielder laid low during stints at the Columbus Crew and Austin FC but things have trended upwards in recent years with the Vancouver Whitecaps, earning him a spot on the USMNT’s Gold Cup roster a year ago. He is one of a handful of fringe players who have made their moments count. Berhalter rounds out the depth chart, but comes to the World Cup with a special prowess for set pieces, which could make him a fairly frequent substitute this summer. Berhalter is a personification of Pochettino’s attempts to foster competition in a once tight-knit U.S. team. “Players like Sebastian Berhalter that scored unbelievable goals the other day that we didn’t call for different football decisions, this type of performance makes us to say maybe next time [he should be] with us,” Pochettino said in October, “but that is how you force the players that are here, seeing that type of behavior, attitude or performance, to improve.”

Career Achievements

2020MLS Cup winner w/ Columbus Crew
2025MLS All-Star
2025MLS Best XI

Age: 25
Caps: 20
Goals: 1

Max Arfsten

Birthplace: Fresno, California

23

Max Arfsten Defender #18

Columbus Crew (USA)

A strong dribbler who looks to join the attack, Max Arfsten can change the dynamic when he’s on the pitch. More of a winger than a traditional wingback, he’s comfortable taking shots or creating for others depending on what the moment calls for.

Strengths

Passing
Shooting

Weaknesses

Tackling
Positioning

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LBLM

LB Left Back
LM Left Midfielder

From the Olympics to the World Cup, the Columbus Crew man has shown the path that youth players can follow if they’re put into the right situations.

Able to come in as a wing back or further up the pitch as a winger, if Pochettino needs a change of pace. The USMNT are quite deep at wing back, but each one in the team can bring something different to the table.

Career Achievements

2023MLS Cup winner
2024Leagues Cup winner
2025MLS All-Star

Age: 27
Caps: 15

Matt Freese

Birthplace: Wayne, Pennsylvania

24

Matt Freese Goalkeeper #24

New York City FC (USA)

If the USMNT ends up in a penalty shootout, Matt Freese is a fascinating option – he’s even studied them at Harvard. While his footwork can be inconsistent at times, he’s a pure shot-stopper who can deliver in big moments.

Strengths

Shot stopping
Penalties

Weaknesses

Passing
Footwork
Concentration

Data gathered by

GK

GK Goalkeeper

Already a USMNT cult hero after a penalty kick shootout against Costa Rica in the Concacaf Gold Cup, Matt Freese is ready to write his next chapter with the squad.

That chapter will follow the Harvard thesis he’s already written on penalty kicks. Freese has put that into action during his career, where even with his club, New York City FC, he has been excellent in those scenarios. “Matty Ice” may be a nickname more akin to NFL quarterback Matt Ryan, but for Freese on penalties, he’s been quite deserving of that, including in open play, where he has a strong hold on his box. Freese may not have debuted for the USMNT until kicking off the Gold Cup in June of 2025, but he’s taken that chance and run with it, earning 14 caps since and putting himself in a strong position to be the number one in net for a World Cup on home soil.

Career Achievements

2020Supporters' Shield winner w/ Philadelphia Union

Age: 22
Caps: 1

Chris Brady

Birthplace: Naperville, Illinois

25

Chris Brady Goalkeeper #25

Chicago Fire FC (USA)

An up-and-coming keeper in the USMNT pool, Chris Brady may have the highest ceiling of the group, but he doesn’t yet have the experience of those ahead of him. Aggressive off his line and extremely athletic, he’s capable of both cutting out attacks early and making highlight-reel saves.

Strengths

Shot stopping
Aggression

Weaknesses

Positioning
Penalty kicks

Data gathered by

GK

GK Goalkeeper

Pochettino’s tenure has been marked by the opportunities he has handed to fringe talent when more experienced players were unavailable, Chris Brady amongst the bunch.

The Chicago Fire academy product first joined the group for last summer’s Concacaf Gold Cup and has been a frequent invite since, making the step up after representing the U.S. at youth levels. The 22-year-old may have only recently received his first ever cap, but his inclusion might be with an eye towards the future, the focus likely to shift to some of the national team’s up-and-coming goalkeepers once the World Cup is over.

Career Achievements

2022CONCACAF U-20 Championship Golden Glove

Age: 29
Caps: 40
Goals: 3

Miles Robinson

Birthplace: Arlington, Massachusetts

26

Miles Robinson Defender #12

FC Cincinnati (USA)

Mauricio Pochettino knows exactly what he’s getting with Miles Robinson. A tried and true, steady, disciplined presence to close out matches. Positionally sound and composed on the ball, he keeps things simple and rarely puts himself or his team in trouble.

Strengths

Leadership
Aerial duels

Weaknesses

Focus
Fouling

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CBRB

CB Center Back
RB Right Back

Miles Robinson at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

The heart of the FC Cincinnati defense, Miles Robinson, is someone who consistently enters when Pochettino wants to close out a game.

When you have 26 players available, not every single one needs to be a starter in the squad, and that’s where knowing your role is a moment to shine. Given the lack of depth at center back and Pochettino wanting to employ a back three during the World Cup, knowing that he’ll get consistency from players is important.

Career Achievements

2xMLS All-Star (2021, 2025)
2xMLS Best XI (2019, 2021)
2021CONCACAF Gold Cup winner
2xCONCACAF Nations League winner (2022-23, 2023-24)
2018MLS Cup winner