USA World Cup Squad: Luna vs. Reyna, Turner in Goal?
Looking Ahead to the 2026 World Cup: The USMNT Roster Projections
We are still over a year away from the 2026 World Cup, but it’s never too early to take stock of the players who will represent the United States men’s national team (USMNT) at the planet’s biggest sporting event. Under the guidance of coach Mauricio Pochettino, certain names will undoubtedly make the 26-player roster, while other positions could see exciting competition.
Current Challenges and Opportunities
The USMNT is currently battling through a challenging four-game losing streak and gearing up for the Gold Cup. As the team’s performance continues to be scrutinized, several roster spots remain up for grabs, leaving the door open for surprising additions when the squad is finalized next year.
The Starting XI: A Midfield and Attack Preview
Let’s explore the potential starting XI if the World Cup were to kick off today, and how this team would differ from the one that made it to the round of 16 in Qatar 2022.
Goalkeeper
Starting GK: Matt Turner
Backups: Zack Steffen, Patrick Schulte
Just Missed Out: Matt Freese, Diego Kochen
Turner has been the primary goalkeeper for the USMNT since 2022, yet he faces limited competition for his spot due to Steffen’s injury during the Gold Cup. With a potential move on the horizon, Turner remains the favorite for the upcoming World Cup, bolstered by his experiences at the elite club level.
Defensive Lineup
Starting defense: Sergino Dest, Chris Richards, Miles Robinson, Antonee “Jedi” Robinson
Backups: Alex Freeman, Mark McKenzie, Joe Scally, Tim Ream, Walker Zimmerman
Dest and Jedi should secure their places as starting wing-backs if they continue their health and form. The partnership at center back remains uncertain, with Miles Robinson currently in the lead but open to competition as the tournament approaches.
Midfield Dynamics
Holding Midfielders: Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie
Backups: Johnny Cardoso, Yunus Musah, Tanner Tessmann
Just Missed Out: Gianluca Busio, Aidan Morris
Adams and McKennie are expected to play pivotal roles, although their performance in the recent Nations League finals raised questions. If Cardoso continues to impress, he may unseat one of them as a starter.
Attacking Midfielder
Attacking Midfielder: Diego Luna
Backup: Gio Reyna
Just Missed Out: Jack McGlynn
Luna has emerged as a strong candidate for the playmaker role. While Reyna’s potential absence raises some questions, his young talent remains a key asset for the squad.
Wingers and Forward Options
Wingers: Tim Weah, Christian Pulisic
Backups: Brenden Aaronson, Malik Tillman, Haji Wright
Just Missed Out: Paxten Aaronson, Damion Downs, Quinn Sullivan
Pulisic stands as a key component of the starting lineup, while Weah’s transition to Juventus has heightened expectations for his performance on the international stage. Aaronson is likely to reclaim a wing position as Leeds United is back in the Premier League.
Striker Position
Striker: Ricardo Pepi
Backups: Folarin Balogun, Patrick Agyemang
Just Missed Out: Josh Sargent, Brian White
Pepi ended last year on a high note, winning a starting spot and continuing to impress until an injury struck. Balogun is also a major contender but has yet to establish his place under Pochettino’s guidance.
As the USMNT navigates its path to the World Cup, the competition within the squad is intensely thrilling. With several players on the rise and others facing significant challenges, the dynamics within the team offer plenty of intrigue as the journey unfolds.
Doug McIntyre is a soccer reporter for FOX Sports, having covered United States men’s and women’s national teams at FIFA World Cups on five continents. Follow him at ByDougMcIntyre.
