USMNT Squad Announced for 2026 World Cup
Mauricio Pochettino has named his 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup, featuring a mix of experienced veterans and emerging talents. The roster includes goalkeepers Matt Freese, Matt Turner, and Chris Brady; defenders such as Sergiño Dest, Tim Ream, and Antonee Robinson; midfielders Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie, and Christian Pulisic; and forwards like Folarin Balogun and Ricardo Pepi.
Goalkeepers
Matt Freese (NYC FC, 27, 14 caps) has risen rapidly, starting nearly every game under Pochettino since his first international start last summer. Matt Turner (New England Revolution, 31, 53 caps) started all four matches at the 2022 World Cup but has recently been supplanted. Chris Brady (Chicago Fire, 22, 0 caps) is a promising young keeper with strong shot-stopping abilities.
Defenders
Max Arfsten (Columbus Crew, 25, 18 caps) has become a consistent contributor as a wing-back. Sergiño Dest (PSV, 25, 37 caps) brings flair and experience from Barcelona. Alex Freeman (Villarreal, 21, 15 caps) is a young defender who impressed in the Gold Cup. Mark McKenzie (Toulouse, 27, 27 caps) has improved in Ligue 1. Tim Ream (Charlotte FC, 38, 80 caps) is the elder statesman, set to become the oldest USMNT World Cup player. Chris Richards (Crystal Palace, 26, 36 caps) is the reigning US player of the year. Antonee Robinson (Fulham, 28, 52 caps) is a key left-back despite injury issues. Miles Robinson (FC Cincinnati, 29, 38 caps) returns after missing 2022 due to injury. Joe Scally (Borussia Mönchengladbach, 23, 24 caps) is versatile across the backline. Auston Trusty (Celtic, 27, 6 caps) has found consistency in Scotland.
Midfielders
Tyler Adams (Bournemouth, 27, 52 caps) is the midfield anchor despite injury concerns. Sebastian Berhalter (Vancouver Whitecaps, 25, 11 caps) earned his debut under Pochettino. Weston McKennie (Juventus, 27, 64 caps) is a consistent performer in Serie A. Cristian Roldan (Seattle Sounders, 30, 45 caps) brings experience and work rate.
Forwards
Brenden Aaronson (Leeds, 25, 57 caps) is a dynamic attacking midfielder. Christian Pulisic (Milan, 27, 84 caps) is the team's star and face of the program. Gio Reyna (Borussia Mönchengladbach, 23, 36 caps) remains polarizing but talented. Malik Tillman (Bayer Leverkusen, 23, 28 caps) is a creative midfielder. Tim Weah (Marseille, 26, 49 caps) provides width and scoring. Alejandro Zendejas (Club América, 28, 13 caps) is a speedy winger. Folarin Balogun (Monaco, 24, 25 caps) leads the line with pace and finishing. Ricardo Pepi (PSV, 23, 35 caps) has scored 10 international goals since 2022. Haji Wright (Coventry, 28, 20 caps) offers versatility as a striker or winger.
The squad reflects Pochettino's emphasis on youth and form, with several players earning their spots through strong club performances. The USMNT will aim to make a deep run in the home World Cup.
