USMNT 2026 World Cup: Analyzing Pochettino's Depth Chart And Potential Starters

Michael

3 min read

Post on Jun 16, 2025

4.6

Share

USMNT 2026 World Cup: Analyzing Pochettino's Depth Chart and Potential Starters

The appointment of Mauricio Pochettino as USMNT head coach has injected a wave of excitement into American soccer. With the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, just around the corner, all eyes are on Pochettino to build a squad capable of challenging for the title on home soil. But who will make the cut? Let's delve into a potential depth chart and analyze the likely starters under the Argentinian manager.

Pochettino's Tactical Approach and Player Selection:

Pochettino is known for his high-pressing, possession-based style of play. This approach will likely necessitate players with specific attributes: technical proficiency, high work rate, and tactical intelligence. His time at Tottenham and PSG showcases a preference for versatile players capable of adapting to different roles within a fluid system. This means we can expect some surprises in his team selections, moving away from rigidly defined positions.

Goalkeeper:

• Starter: Matt Turner (Arsenal) – Turner's experience in the Premier League and his consistent performances make him the likely number one.
• Backup: Ethan Horvath (Luton Town) – Horvath provides a reliable backup option with international experience.
• Third Choice: This position is highly competitive and will likely depend on form in the lead-up to the tournament. Young goalkeepers like Gaga Slonina are potential contenders.

Defense:

• Center-Backs (Starters): Miles Robinson (Atlanta United), Chris Richards (Crystal Palace) - Robinson's physicality and Richards' composure make them strong contenders for starting roles. However, competition is fierce, with players like John Brooks potentially vying for a spot depending on form and fitness.
• Full-Backs (Starters): Sergiño Dest (AC Milan), Antonee Robinson (Fulham) – Dest's attacking prowess and Robinson's defensive solidity make them strong candidates. However, the emergence of younger players will undoubtedly challenge for these positions.
• Depth: The depth chart here is incredibly strong, with players like Aaron Long, Tim Ream, and potentially others pushing for inclusion.

Midfield:

• Central Midfield (Starters): Tyler Adams (Bournemouth), Weston McKennie (Juventus) – Adams' tireless work rate and McKennie's box-to-box capabilities are vital. However, the continued development of players like Yunus Musah (Valencia) and Luca de la Torre (Celta Vigo) presents a strong challenge.
• Attacking Midfield (Starters): Giovanni Reyna (Borussia Dortmund), Brenden Aaronson (Leeds United) – Reyna's technical brilliance and Aaronson's pressing ability offer a dynamic attacking threat. However, this position is highly competitive, with players like Christian Pulisic potentially fighting for a spot.
• Depth: The midfield depth is arguably the USMNT’s greatest strength. Players like Kellyn Acosta, Djordje Mihailovic, and Paxton Pomykal all add depth and versatility.

Forward:

• Starters: Ricardo Pepi (Augsburg), Folarin Balogun (Arsenal) – Pepi's potential and Balogun's prolific goalscoring ability make them strong candidates to lead the line.
• Depth: This is an area needing development. While players like Jesús Ferreira (FC Dallas) provide options, the competition for a starting spot remains intense, leaving room for potential breakout stars in the coming years.

Potential Surprises and Young Talent:

Pochettino's tactical flexibility means unexpected inclusions are possible. He might favor players with specific skill sets that fit his system, regardless of their current status within the team. Keep an eye out for emerging talent in MLS and European leagues. The pathway for young Americans to the national team is clearer than ever.

Conclusion:

The USMNT's 2026 World Cup squad will be a fascinating blend of experience and youth. While predicting the exact starting XI is impossible this far out, Pochettino's tactical preferences and the current pool of talent suggest a formidable team. The next few years will be crucial for players to solidify their places in the squad and prove themselves worthy of a spot on the home World Cup stage. The competition is fierce, and only the best will make the cut. Stay tuned for further updates as the squad evolves!