USMNT 2026 World Cup Squad Predictions: Rising Stars and Key Players

With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, the US Men's National Team (USMNT) is gearing up for what promises to be a pivotal tournament. The September international window provided a glimpse into the team's potential, with players like Folarin Balogun and Alex Zendejas making significant strides. Here's a detailed look at the predicted 26-man squad and the players who are making their case for inclusion.

Goalkeepers

• Matt Freese (New York City FC): Solid performances in September have solidified his position as the starting goalkeeper.
• Matt Turner (New England Revolution): Needs to regain top form to reclaim his spot.
• Zack Steffen (Colorado Rapids): Consistent throughout the season, remains in contention.

Center Backs

• Chris Richards (Crystal Palace): Cemented his status as a starting center back.
• Tim Ream (Charlotte FC): Leadership and steady passing make him a key player.
• Mark McKenzie (Toulouse): Looking to reestablish himself after a tough match against PSG.
• Cameron Carter-Vickers (Celtic): Faces challenges but remains a contender.
• Miles Robinson (FC Cincinnati): Held in high regard but needs to make more inroads.

Outside Backs

• Sergiño Dest (PSV Eindhoven): Excels at club level but needs to improve defensively.
• Antonee Robinson (Fulham): Expected to return to his best form by October.
• Alex Freeman (Orlando City SC): Solid performances keep him in the mix.
• Max Arfsten (Columbus Crew): Defending has shown steady improvement.

Midfielders

• Tyler Adams (AFC Bournemouth): Finished the window strong and continues to improve.
• Weston McKennie (Juventus): Needs to break through at club level to retain his spot.
• Johnny Cardoso (Atlético Madrid): Potential remains high but needs to deliver.
• Yunus Musah (Atalanta): Versatility sees him move from bubble player to squad member.
• Tanner Tessmann (Lyon): Solid start with Lyon keeps him in contention.

Attackers

• Christian Pulisic (AC Milan): Back to running in the open field, his spot is secure.
• Tim Weah (Marseille): Faces competition but his pace is a valuable asset.
• Malik Tillman (Bayer Leverkusen): A Pochettino favorite who needs to continue delivering.
• Diego Luna (Real Salt Lake): Best role might be as a late-game chaos agent.
• Alejandro Zendejas (América): Man of the Match performance against Japan boosts his chances.

Forwards

• Folarin Balogun (AS Monaco): Dynamic presence makes him the starting striker.
• Ricardo Pepi (PSV Eindhoven): Building on his return from injury.
• Josh Sargent (Norwich City): Struggles internationally but continues to perform at club level.
• Haji Wright (Coventry City): Hot on the heels of Sargent but faces competition.

On the Bubble

Several players are on the bubble, including Patrick Schulte, Auston Trusty, Tristan Blackmon, Joe Scally, Caleb Wiley, Cristian Roldan, Luca de la Torre, Sebastian Berhalter, Gio Reyna, Patrick Agyemang, and Damion Downs. Their performances in the coming months will be crucial in determining their inclusion in the final squad.

With less than a year until the World Cup, competition for places in the USMNT will be fierce. Stay tuned for more updates as the team prepares for the biggest stage in international football.