Goalkeeper and Player Selection Insights Ahead of International Matches

omidbasir- **Goalkeeper Selections**: Matt Freese, Patrick Schulte, Matt Turner

**In Consideration**: Jonathan Klinsmann, Ethan Horvath, Chris Brady, Roman Celentano, Diego Kochen, Zack Steffen

There has been minimal change in the goalkeeping department, largely because most of the goalkeepers are currently playing in Major League Soccer (MLS). The only goalkeeper on this list who has seen senior match action since November is Jonathan Klinsmann, who continues to impress with Cesena in Serie B. His ongoing performance keeps him relevant for selection, especially as the rest of the listed goalkeepers will be entering the next international window without recent game experience.

Overall, the hierarchy appears stable: Freese is expected to start, Turner is the likely backup, and the competition is ongoing to determine who will join them for the summer tournament.

**Defensive Lineup**: Max Arfsten, Sergino Dest, Alex Freeman, Mark McKenzie, Tim Ream, Chris Richards, Antonee Robinson, Miles Robinson

**In Consideration**: Noahkai Banks, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Joe Scally, John Tolkin, Auston Trusty, Walker Zimmerman

Focusing on the center backs, Noahkai Banks emerges as a significant wildcard, having made substantial progress since the fall. Now a regular starter in the Bundesliga, he is on the brink of selection. However, introducing a player for their first caps in a World Cup setting is a delicate decision, so it may be prudent to reassess his candidacy after he gains additional experience against teams like Portugal or Belgium.

Joe Scally also presents an intriguing option, possessing the versatility to play both as a third center back and a right back. His experience in the Bundesliga adds value, but he needs to catch up after rejoining the squad in the fall.

Despite these new faces, many of the usual candidates are familiar, and with Antonee Robinson back to full fitness, there is greater cause for optimism.

**Midfield Choices**: Brenden Aaronson, Tyler Adams, Sebastian Berhalter, Weston McKennie, Aidan Morris, Gio Reyna, Cristian Roldan, Tanner Tessmann, Malik Tillman

**In Consideration**: Johnny Cardoso, Luca de la Torre, Jack McGlynn, Yunus Musah

We start with Gio Reyna, who remains a significant point of discussion as the World Cup approaches. His performance in the November friendlies was outstanding, aligning with his history of success with the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT). While he has seen increased playing time with Borussia Monchengladbach recently, questions remain about whether this is sufficient to secure his spot on the roster, keeping the debate alive until the final selection is made.

If Reyna does not make the cut, several strong contenders exist. Cardoso, now with Atletico Madrid, deserves consideration based on his club status, despite past challenges with the USMNT. McGlynn is recovering from injury and is expected to be fit for the MLS season; his performance will be key to his selection. Meanwhile, Yunus Musah possesses significant talent but has struggled to make an impact at the club level.

This group has already experienced considerable shifts. McKennie, who faced challenges in 2025, is now regarded as indispensable due to his recent strong performances with Juventus. Conversely, Aaronson’s ascent in the Premier League has elevated him from a potential selection to a near-certainty. Given the dynamics within this group, further changes are likely as the tournament approaches.

**Forward Candidates**: Patrick Agyemang, Folarin Balogun, Diego Luna, Ricardo Pepi, Christian Pulisic, Tim Weah

**In Consideration**: Josh Sargent, Brian White, Haji Wright, Alejandro Zendejas

Two forwards appear securely positioned: Balogun is a definite selection, and Pepi is also likely to be included, provided he maintains his fitness ahead of the summer tournament. The competition for the third forward position is fierce and may come down to the wire; Agyemang currently holds an edge due to his recent form in the Championship, but the final decision may not be made until May.

The remaining forwards seem more established in their positions. Pulisic is a fixture in the lineup, as is Weah. Diego Luna will need to start the MLS season strongly, but given his promising finish to 2025 against Uruguay, he is fully capable of doing so.