The United States Men’s National Team returned to the World Cup stage this year full of optimism after missing out on the tournament in Russia four years ago.
In the end, Qatar 2022 turned out to be a mixed bag. On the one hand, the Stars and Stripes went unbeaten in Group B alongside England, Iran, and Wales, impressing many with their high-energy pressing. But on the other hand, the manner of their 3-1 defeat to the Netherlands in the round-of-16 was disappointing, while the US failed to get the best of their forward line.
As co-hosts alongside Mexico and Canada, the United States have already turned attention to 2026; learning from past mistakes and developing young talent to make sure they go much further on home soil.
How different could the side be that lines up in 2026 compared to that of 2022? Let’s build a very early starting XI:
GK: Gabriel Slonina – Matt Turner was one of the top American performers in Qatar but the fact remains his situation at Arsenal, stuck behind Aaron Ramsdale, is not ideal. In the meantime, the US have a number of supremely talented prospects emerging in this position, with new Chelsea signing Gabriel Slonina chief among them. Breaking in at Stamford Bridge will be tough, but if he can manage it, Slonina has all the tools to be an elite goalkeeper and one of the first names on the teamsheet in 2026.
RB: Sergino Dest – Sergino Dest was mostly excellent in Qatar and his speed and ability to press offered the USMNT another dimension. Age is very much on his side, with the only complication for Dest right now figuring out whether he should return to Barcelona following his loan spell with AC Milan, stay where he is now, or try something new. Regardless, he should be peaking by 2026.
CB: Chris Richards – Had he been fit, Chris Richards would almost certainly have gone to Qatar and, likely, played extensive minutes. He would have been better for that experience but over the coming years, the defender is primed to thrive at Crystal Palace. By the time the next World Cup comes around, he’ll be 26, seasoned and, hopefully, playing the best soccer of his career.
CB: Miles Robinson – Who lines up next to Richards is the biggest question. Existing options like Tim Ream and Walker Zimmerman will be pushing well in their 30s, while it looks like John Brooks’ international career is over already, let alone in 2026 when he’ll be 33. One player you shouldn’t sleep on is Miles Robinson. He likely would’ve partnered Richards in Qatar had it not…
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