Can Pochettino Crack The Code? USMNT's Best XI Nine Months Before World Cup

Michael

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Post on Sep 10, 2025

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Can Pochettino Crack the Code? USMNT's Best XI Nine Months Before the World Cup

The clock is ticking. Nine months stand between the United States Men's National Team (USMNT) and the kickoff of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Pressure mounts on head coach, Gregg Berhalter’s successor, the newly appointed Diego Pochettino, to assemble a winning squad. But with a wealth of talent and emerging stars, can Pochettino decipher the puzzle and field the USMNT's best XI before the tournament begins?

The appointment of Pochettino, known for his tactical acumen and ability to develop young players, has injected a dose of optimism into the American soccer landscape. However, the task ahead is monumental. He inherits a squad brimming with potential but also riddled with question marks regarding squad cohesion and starting line-up choices.

<h3>Key Positions and Contenders</h3>

Several positions are fiercely contested, creating intense competition within the squad. Let's examine some key areas:

• Goalkeeper: While Matt Turner currently holds the starting position, the emergence of Zack Steffen and Ethan Horvath adds a layer of uncertainty. Pochettino will need to determine the most reliable custodian for the high-pressure environment of a World Cup.

• Defense: The backline remains a work in progress. Players like Walker Zimmerman, Aaron Long, and Tim Ream offer experience, but integrating younger talents like Chris Richards and Cameron Carter-Vickers will be crucial for a balanced and dynamic defense. Pochettino’s tactical approach will significantly influence his selection. Will he opt for a three-man backline or stick with a traditional four?

• Midfield: This is arguably the most competitive area. Tyler Adams' departure leaves a void in defensive midfield. Yunus Musah's attacking prowess and Weston McKennie's box-to-box abilities are crucial, but finding the right balance with other promising midfielders like Luca de la Torre and Giovanni Reyna is paramount.

• Attack: The USMNT boasts exciting attacking talent. Christian Pulisic remains a key figure, but the likes of Brenden Aaronson, Josh Sargent, and Gio Reyna are all pushing for starting spots. Pochettino needs to find a system that maximizes their individual strengths while fostering cohesive teamwork.

<h3>Pochettino's Tactical Approach: A Key to Success</h3>

Pochettino's success will heavily depend on his ability to integrate his tactical philosophy with the players' strengths. His history with Tottenham Hotspur and Paris Saint-Germain demonstrates a preference for possession-based football and high pressing. However, adapting this strategy to the specific dynamics of the USMNT will be vital. Will he favor a 4-3-3 formation, a 4-2-3-1, or something entirely new? The next few months will be critical in observing his tactical experimentation.

<h3>Predicting the USMNT's Best XI (Nine Months Out)</h3>

Predicting a starting XI this far out is speculative, but based on current form and potential, a possible lineup could look like this:

• Goalkeeper: Matt Turner
• Defense: Sergiño Dest, Walker Zimmerman, Aaron Long, Antonee Robinson
• Midfield: Yunus Musah, Weston McKennie, Luca de la Torre
• Attack: Christian Pulisic, Josh Sargent, Gio Reyna

This is merely a hypothetical lineup. The actual starting XI will likely evolve depending on players' performances, injuries, and Pochettino's tactical choices.

<h3>The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities</h3>

The road to the 2026 World Cup is filled with both challenges and opportunities. Friendlies, Nations League matches, and the Gold Cup will provide Pochettino with valuable opportunities to experiment with different formations, assess player combinations, and ultimately, solidify his best starting XI. The pressure is on, but with his tactical expertise and the USMNT’s raw talent, the future remains full of exciting potential.

What are your predictions for the USMNT's starting XI? Share your thoughts in the comments below!