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

Michael

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Post on Jun 16, 2025

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

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the USA, Mexico, and Canada, is just around the corner, igniting excitement and speculation about the United States Men's National Team (USMNT) roster. With the appointment of Mauricio Pochettino as head coach, a new era dawns, promising a fresh tactical approach and a potential shift in personnel. This article projects a possible USMNT 2026 World Cup squad, outlining Pochettino's likely starting XI and the depth chart behind it. We'll analyze potential players based on current form, future potential, and Pochettino's preferred style of play.

Pochettino's Tactical Approach: A Foundation for Selection

Pochettino's managerial career showcases a penchant for high-pressing, possession-based football, demanding both technical proficiency and athleticism from his players. This preference heavily influences our projected squad. Expect to see a focus on players with:

• High work rate and pressing intensity: The ability to relentlessly win the ball back high up the pitch is crucial in Pochettino's system.
• Technical skill and ball control: Maintaining possession under pressure requires players comfortable on the ball in tight spaces.
• Versatility: Players capable of adapting to different roles and formations will be highly valued.

Projected USMNT 2026 World Cup Starting XI:

This lineup prioritizes a balanced approach, combining attacking flair with defensive solidity:

• Goalkeeper: Matt Turner (Arsenal) – Turner's experience and consistent performances make him the likely starter.
• Defense (Back Four): Sergiño Dest (Barcelona/Other), Miles Robinson (Atlanta United), Cameron Carter-Vickers (Celtic), Antonee Robinson (Fulham) – This backline balances experience and youth, offering both defensive stability and attacking potential.
• Midfield (Three): Tyler Adams (Bournemouth/Other), Weston McKennie (Juventus/Other), Gio Reyna (Borussia Dortmund) – A midfield trio boasting a blend of defensive grit (Adams), box-to-box energy (McKennie), and creative playmaking (Reyna).
• Attack (Three): Christian Pulisic (AC Milan), Brenden Aaronson (Leeds United/Other), Folarin Balogun (Arsenal) – This attacking trident promises pace, skill, and goalscoring prowess, with Pulisic leading the line and Aaronson providing support from the flanks. Balogun's prolific goalscoring form will likely earn him a starting role.

USMNT 2026 World Cup Depth Chart:

Beyond the starting eleven, strong depth is critical for tournament success. Here’s a look at potential backups:

• Goalkeeper: Zack Steffen (Middlesbrough/Other)
• Defense: DeAndre Yedlin (Inter Miami CF), John Brooks (Possible Return), Tim Ream (Fulham), Aaron Herrera (Real Salt Lake)
• Midfield: Luca de la Torre (Celta Vigo), Yunus Musah (Valencia/Other), James Sands (Rangers/Other)
• Attack: Timothy Weah (Lille/Other), Ricardo Pepi (Groningen/Other), Jordan Morris (Seattle Sounders FC)

Key Considerations and Potential Surprises:

This projection considers current form, but the next few years will be crucial. Emerging talent could disrupt this lineup. The performances of players in their respective leagues will significantly influence Pochettino's final decisions. Furthermore, injuries and unexpected breakthroughs will undoubtedly play a role. Keep an eye on players like Cade Cowell (San Jose Earthquakes), Alejandro Zendejas (Club América), and Djordje Mihailovic (Montreal CF), all of whom have the potential to push for a spot on the squad.

Conclusion:

The USMNT’s journey to the 2026 World Cup promises excitement and uncertainty. While this projection offers a glimpse into a potential squad under Pochettino, the final roster will depend on several factors. One thing is certain: the competition for places will be fierce, and the USA will be aiming for a strong showing on home soil. The next few years will be pivotal in determining the ultimate lineup, and we encourage you to follow the USMNT’s progress closely. What are your thoughts on this projection? Share your opinions in the comments below!