The U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) is gearing up for crucial friendlies against Paraguay and Uruguay this weekend, marking yet another test in their preparation for the 2026 World Cup. With both Paraguay and Uruguay having already secured their spots for the tournament, the USMNT will be looking to solidify their own lineup.
In the lead-up to these matches, the USMNT has faced a significant challenge: injuries to key players. Stars including Christian Pulisic, Tyler Adams, Antonee Robinson, and Weston McKennie will be sidelined for this round of games. Coach Mauricio Pochettino is now tasked with making strategic selections from a depleted squad.
The team is missing a total of seven players who could have been potential starters, significantly affecting both defensive and midfield options. The absence of these players creates a patchwork scenario for the coach. However, amidst the adversity, there are several promising developments.
Sergiño Dest has emerged as a beacon of hope for the team. At just 25 years old, he has been a consistent performer for PSV Eindhoven this season and is expected to step up in the creative roles typically occupied by Pulisic. Alex Freeman has also shown potential, but the team will benefit from having Dest healthy and performing at his best.
Additionally, the forward positions are brimming with talent, as the USMNT boasts depth like never before. Strikers Folarin Balogun, Ricardo Pepi, and Haji Wright are all in excellent form, presenting Pochettino with enviable options. Balogun has netted five goals for Monaco, while Pepi matches him with five goals and an assist for PSV. Wright has also been productive at Coventry, scoring nine goals and providing two assists. The presence of Josh Sargent, who is sidelined, with six goals and two assists for Norwich showcases the wealth of attacking options available.
Tanner Tessmann is another player making strides in the midfield. Having started 10 out of 12 games in his second season with Lyon, Tessmann is positioned to seize any opportunity presented to him in the absence of Adams and Cristian Roldan.
As for possible formations, the USMNT may utilize either a back-three or a back-four against Paraguay. With the back-three, the lineup could feature Matt Freese in goal, supported by Auston Trusty, Mark McKenzie, and Tim Ream in defense. Dest would add width and attacking support alongside Tanner Tessmann and Cristian Roldan, with Folarin Balogun and Ricardo Pepi leading the line. In a back-four, Freese could again take the goalkeeping role with Dest, McKenzie, Ream, and Joe Scally in defense.
Despite the key injuries, the upcoming matches present an opportunity for Pochettino’s side to showcase their depth and resilience, potentially setting the stage for a promising run leading into the World Cup next summer. The USMNT’s ability to adapt under pressure will undoubtedly be tested, but there is hope that the talent at their disposal can shine through this challenge.