T<\/span>The 2026 FIFA World Cup is just over two months away. Preparation takes time, so U.S. men’s national team head coach Mauricio Pochettino is in no hurry to finalize the roster. That hasn’t stopped analysts from speculating about the starting lineup.<\/p>\nThis weekend’s 5-2 friendly defeat to Belgium raised more questions than answers for Pochettino and exposed one or two weaknesses.<\/p>\n
The trial of new defensive lines, particularly a back three, in the run-up to the tournament has prompted calls from fans and analysts for a return to basics.<\/p>\n
Still, as NBC Sports’ Nicholas Mendola pointed out, Pochettino’s decision is complicated by the fact that he has “the deepest depth of male players the United States has ever produced,” fueling debate among analysts.<\/p>\n
Analysts analyze Pochettino’s options<\/h2>\n
Mendola, who will start in front of goal, questioned whether Matt Freese would start. Despite Turner conceding five goals against Belgium, Pochettino still has the possibility of relying on Matt Turner.<\/p>\n
Defensively, Chris Richards is considered the undisputed centerpiece. Other names in contention include Tim Ream, Miles Robinson, Auston Trusty, Joe Scully and Alex Freeman.<\/p>\n
The midfield faces even tougher challenges. Tyler Adams and Christian Pulisic are essential, but their injury histories open the door for players like Tanner Tessman and Johnny Cardoso.<\/p>\n
Mendola sees Folarin Balogun as the clear choice at centre-forward up front. Still, Ricardo Pepi and Patrick Agyemang have Pochettino’s trust and could get a chance.<\/p>\n
USA’s ideal eleven at the World Cup<\/h2>\n
Mendola has excluded star players such as Jess Ferreira, Yunus Moussa and Walker Zimmerman from the 2022 Qatar tournament for various reasons.<\/p>\n
Assuming the backline will be three players, Mendola’s ideal eleven would be:<\/p>\n
Goalkeeper: Matt Turner Defenders: Chris Richards, Mark McKenzie, Tim Ream Midfielders: Sergio Dest, Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie, Anthony Robinson Forwards: Timothy Weah, Folarin Balogun, Christian Pulisic<\/p><\/div>\n
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