USMNT's Road to the 2026 World Cup

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon, the US Men's National Team (USMNT) is in full preparation mode. One of the key players under scrutiny is Weston McKennie, whose future at Juventus remains uncertain. McKennie has barely featured in preseason matches, raising questions about his role in the upcoming Serie A season and his readiness for the World Cup.

Weston McKennie's Juventus Conundrum

McKennie, a pivotal midfielder for the USMNT, has seen limited playing time during Juventus' preseason. This has sparked debates about whether he needs to seek a transfer to ensure regular minutes and maintain his form ahead of the World Cup. Last season, McKennie was a consistent presence, making 48 appearances across all competitions. However, with manager Igor Tudor favoring a 3-4-3 formation, McKennie's opportunities have dwindled.

Christian Pulisic's Resurgence

Meanwhile, Christian Pulisic has been making headlines with his performances for AC Milan. After a summer marred by controversies and injuries, Pulisic has returned to form, scoring crucial goals and showcasing his talent. His 66-minute performance in Milan's Coppa Italia win over Bari was a reminder of his importance to both club and country.

Johnny Cardoso's Atlético Madrid Debut

Another USMNT player to watch is Johnny Cardoso, who made his debut for Atlético Madrid. Despite being subbed out at halftime, Cardoso's performance was commendable, completing 87.5% of his passes and winning 71.4% of his duels. His ability to replicate his club form at the international level will be crucial for the USMNT.

Key Performances Across Europe

Other USMNT players are also making waves across Europe. Josh Sargent continues to impress at Norwich City, while Chris Richards and Sergiño Dest have been solid for Crystal Palace and PSV Eindhoven, respectively. These performances are vital as the USMNT aims to build a competitive squad for the World Cup.

The In-Form XI

If the World Cup started tomorrow, the in-form USMNT starting XI would feature a mix of experienced players and emerging talents. Matt Turner remains a strong contender in goal, while Antonee Robinson and Joe Scally are battling for the fullback positions. In midfield, Tyler Adams and Luca de la Torre are expected to play key roles, with Christian Pulisic leading the attack.

Conclusion

As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup continues, the USMNT will need all its players in top form. Weston McKennie's situation at Juventus, Christian Pulisic's resurgence, and the performances of other key players will be critical in determining the team's success on home soil.