Strikers on the Rise: Analyzing USMNT’s Forward Prospects

omidbasir- While a select few players sit atop the hierarchy, a group of hopefuls understands that a single strong performance can elevate their status significantly.

Josh Sargent finds himself among these hopefuls, though a strong streak may still be on the horizon. Currently, he is persona non grata at Norwich after attempting to leave the club this winter. His future largely hinges on a potential move to MLS in the coming weeks. If this transfer materializes and he nets a few early goals, he would certainly bolster his case; however, time is not on his side, especially given his previous struggles while representing the USMNT.

In the MLS, several players are positioned to make significant impacts. Brandon Vazquez, returning from an ACL injury, is one such player. Initially in contention when Pochettino arrived, Vazquez must first demonstrate his fitness with Austin FC before re-entering the national conversation. Similarly, Brian White, who ranked among the top scorers in MLS last season, will need to replicate that success this year to secure an opportunity to showcase his talents on the international stage.

Damion Downs, now on loan in the Bundesliga, is also worth monitoring. After a standout performance in Germany’s second division last season, he has a lot to prove following a lackluster first half of this campaign spent on Southampton’s bench.

Every striker can benefit from an occasional hat-trick, and Wright’s recent three-goal performance was certainly timely. Competing against second-place Middlesbrough, Wright scored three goals for first-place Coventry City, contributing to a 3-1 victory. This goal surge came just as his momentum appeared to be faltering, but it is evident that Wright has regained his form. With these goals, he now boasts a total of 13 for the season in 1,885 minutes of play, including five scored in 2026. His two goals against Australia in October also marked his most notable performance in a USMNT jersey.

Overall, Wright is doing what is necessary to make his mark. He offers versatility to the USMNT by comfortably playing as a primary No. 9, winger, or second striker. His experience from the World Cup, including scoring against the Netherlands, further strengthens his appeal, yet the competition for a squad spot remains fierce.

No other USMNT striker is currently in better form than Agyemang, which speaks volumes given the caliber of players on this list. After an initial adjustment period, the former Charlotte FC star has become a crucial asset for Derby County. Since January 17, Agyemang has scored in four of Derby’s six matches, amassing a total of 10 goals this season, along with three assists, underscoring his impact on the team’s offensive strategy.

Notably, Agyemang has showcased an enhanced physical skill set, utilizing his size more effectively than during his MLS tenure. This makes him a valuable asset, particularly as a super-sub, capable of changing the dynamics of a game when the USMNT finds itself in need of a shift.

The narrative might be quite different regarding Ricardo Pepi, whose injury came just as he was hitting his stride with PSV. Prior to his arm injury on January 10, Pepi was excelling in both the Eredivisie and Champions League, having scored in six out of seven matches. His contribution to a late goal in a 4-1 rout of Liverpool further highlighted his talent. Pepi was averaging a goal every 89.5 minutes in the league and even more impressively, every 49.66 minutes in the Champions League—a remarkable strike rate for a player who has maintained this performance level over time.

Unfortunately, consistent injury struggles have plagued Pepi; having missed the second half of last season, he is now sidelined for a significant portion of this one due to his arm injury. However, he is expected to return in a few weeks, allowing him ample time to prepare and advocate for his inclusion in the World Cup squad.

Pepi’s fall performances with the USMNT have solidified his status as a leader, and his club performances have kept him in that position, at least for the time being.

Contrastingly, Folarin Balogun is presently experiencing a goal drought in Ligue 1, having not scored since November. However, he has risen to the occasion in critical moments during the Champions League, netting two goals against Paris Saint-Germain in this week’s first leg. With five goals in European competition this season, Balogun ranks seventh among all players in the tournament, a significant factor when evaluating strikers for a high-stakes tournament like the World Cup.

Balogun possesses the pace, finishing ability, and timing necessary for a No. 9, attributes the U.S. will undoubtedly seek. Nonetheless, he is not alone in this competition, adding pressure to consistently deliver before the World Cup kicks off this June.