USMNT 2026 World Cup Roster Projection: Pochettino's Starting XI & Depth Chart

Michael

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Post on Jun 15, 2025

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USMNT 2026 World Cup Roster Projection: Pochettino's Starting XI & Depth Chart

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, is rapidly approaching, igniting excitement and speculation about the US Men's National Team (USMNT) roster. With manager Gregg Berhalter's departure and the appointment of Mauricio Pochettino, a new era dawns for American soccer. This article projects a potential starting XI and depth chart for the USMNT under Pochettino's leadership, considering player form, potential breakthroughs, and the manager's tactical preferences.

Pochettino's Vision: A Blend of Youth and Experience

Pochettino, known for his high-pressing, possession-based style, is likely to prioritize a blend of youthful dynamism and seasoned experience in his USMNT squad. This projection reflects that philosophy, emphasizing players who excel in a fast-paced, technically demanding system. Expect a focus on athleticism, tactical flexibility, and a strong attacking mentality.

Projected Starting XI (4-3-3 Formation):

• Goalkeeper: Matt Turner (Arsenal) - Turner's experience and consistent performances make him the frontrunner for the starting spot.
• Defense: Sergiño Dest (FC Barcelona/Loan), Miles Robinson (Atlanta United), Chris Richards (Crystal Palace), Antonee Robinson (Fulham) - This backline offers a mix of attacking prowess (Dest) and defensive solidity (Robinson, Richards). Antonee Robinson's experience at left-back is crucial.
• Midfield: Tyler Adams (Bournemouth), Weston McKennie (Juventus/Loan), Yunus Musah (Valencia) - This midfield trio provides a balance of defensive grit (Adams), box-to-box energy (McKennie), and creative flair (Musah).
• Forward: Christian Pulisic (AC Milan), Gio Reyna (Borussia Dortmund), Folarin Balogun (Arsenal) - Pulisic's experience and leadership are invaluable. Reyna’s creativity and Balogun's prolific goalscoring ability will be key to the attack.

Depth Chart:

This depth chart reflects players who could realistically challenge for starting positions or provide crucial cover in various roles.

• Goalkeeper: Ethan Horvath (Luton Town), Zack Steffen (Manchester City/Loan)
• Defense: DeAndre Yedlin (Inter Miami CF), Aaron Long (New York Red Bulls), John Brooks (SL Benfica), Reggie Cannon (Boavista), Cameron Carter-Vickers (Celtic)
• Midfield: Luca de la Torre (Celta Vigo), James Sands (Rangers), Brenden Aaronson (Union Berlin), Giovanni Reyna (can also play here)
• Forward: Josh Sargent (Norwich City), Tim Weah (Lille), Ricardo Pepi (Groningen)

Key Considerations and Potential Surprises:

• Emergence of Young Talent: The next few years will be crucial for identifying and developing young prospects who could potentially disrupt this projection. The pathway to the senior national team is flourishing and players like Cade Cowell and Owen Otasowie are prime candidates for a breakout.
• Tactical Flexibility: Pochettino may opt for different formations depending on the opponent. A 3-4-3 or a 4-2-3-1 are plausible alternatives.
• Injury Concerns: Maintaining player fitness will be paramount. Injuries could significantly alter the squad's composition.

Conclusion:

This USMNT 2026 World Cup roster projection offers a glimpse into a potentially exciting team under Mauricio Pochettino's guidance. The blend of established stars and promising young players presents a compelling mix, but the coming years will be crucial in finalizing the squad and ensuring peak performance on home soil. The road to 2026 is paved with qualifying matches and friendlies, providing ample opportunities for players to stake their claim and demonstrate their readiness for the global stage. Keep your eyes peeled for emerging talent and stay tuned for further updates as the squad evolves. What are your thoughts on this projection? Share your opinions in the comments below!