The 2026 FIFA World Cup is just over two months away. With time to prepare, U.S. Men’s National Team head coach Mauricio Pochettino is in no rush to finalize his roster. That hasn’t stopped analysts from speculating about the starting XI.
This weekend’s 5-2 defeat in a friendly against Belgium raised more questions than answers for Pochettino, exposing one or two weaknesses.
Experimenting with a new defensive line so close to the tournament, particularly with a three back, has prompted fans and analysts to call for a return to basics.
Still, as Nicholas Mendola of NBC Sports noted, “the deepest pool of men’s players ever produced by the United States” complicates Pochettino’s decision and fuels debate among analysts.
Analysts break down Pochettino’s options
Starting in goal, Mendola questioned whether Matt Freese will be the starter. He left open the possibility that Pochettino could turn to Matt Turner, despite Turner conceding five goals against Belgium.
In defense, Chris Richards is seen as the undisputed centerpiece. Other names in contention include Tim Ream, Miles Robinson, Auston Trusty, Joe Scally, and Alex Freeman.
Midfield presents a tougher challenge. Tyler Adams and Christian Pulisic are indispensable, but their injury histories open the door for players like Tanner Tessman and Johnny Cardoso.
Up front, Mendola views Folarin Balogun as the clear choice at center forward. Still, Ricardo Pepi and Patrick Agyemang have earned Pochettino’s trust and could see opportunities.
The USA’s ideal XI for the World Cup
For various reasons, Mendola excluded stars from Qatar 2022 such as Jesús Ferreira, Yunus Musah, and Walker Zimmerman.
Assuming a three-man backline, Mendola’s ideal XI is:
- Goalkeeper: Matt Turner
- Defenders: Chris Richards, Mark McKenzie, Tim Ream
- Midfielders: Sergiño Dest, Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie, Antonee Robinson
- Forwards: Timothy Weah, Folarin Balogun, Christian Pulisic
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