Keep, Depth, Drop-What Does the Future Hold for Every 2026 USMNT World Cup Player?
Sports Illustrated • • sports
Key Points:
- The U.S. men's national soccer team exited the 2026 World Cup at the quarterfinals on home soil, despite having one of the most skilled rosters in its history, prompting evaluations of player futures ahead of the 2030 cycle.
- Key players like Chris Brady, Sergiño Dest, Alex Freeman, Chris Richards, Tyler Adams, Sebastian Berhalter, Malik Tillman, Folarin Balogun, and Ricardo Pepi are recommended to be retained for their potential and performances.
- Some veterans and underperformers, including Matt Turner, Tim Ream, Mark McKenzie, Cristian Roldan, Alejandro Zendejas, and Haji Wright, are advised to be dropped from the player pool as the team looks to rebuild.
- Christian Pulisic's World Cup performance was disappointing, casting doubt on his future as a starter, while players like Gio Reyna and Tim Weah are considered depth options depending on future coaching decisions.
- The USMNT faces a transitional period focusing on regional success and preparing a new generation for the 2030 World Cup, with managerial decisions still pending regarding Mauricio Pochettino's role.
