As they get ready to host the 2024 Copa América, the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) faces a huge task and a huge chance. With 15 strong countries in the event, including football giants Argentina and Brazil, the stage is set for an exciting game. The USMNT sees this competition as more than just a test of skill and strategy. It’s also a big chance to show that they are ready for the 2026 World Cup, so each player’s choice is an important part of Gregg Berhalter’s big picture. Check out the possible lineup and the growing excitement as the USMNT gets ready for this very important match.
Lineup Locks
These players are the backbone of the USMNT and will always be a part of Gregg Berhalter’s plans. With players like Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie, and Christian Pulisic, the team seems to be safe in the middle and on offense. Defenders like Sergiño Dest and Matt Turner keep their spots by consistently contributing, even when they have bad games.
Tyler Adams has proven himself in the middle of the field, where he brings a toughness and skill to the team. When he comes back from illness soon, he could help the team by going back into the “MMA” midfield trio with McKennie and Yunus Musah.
Sergiño Dest is still very important, even though he got a double yellow card not long ago. When he’s healthy, Berhalter will still choose him as his right back. Because he is quick and good at defense, he is very useful. Meanwhile, Matt Turner is still in goal, even though there have been a few small problems, because there isn’t much competition for the spot.
Christian Pulisic’s attacking skills are on full show at AC Milan, where he has scored goals and set up others. His shape makes him an important part of the team’s attacking plans. Also, Antonee “Jedi” Robinson and Tim Weah solidify their places as left back and wing options, respectively, after getting over fitness concerns.
Potential Starters
A group of up-and-coming players and seasoned veterans who are ready to solidify their spots in the starting lineup. The fact that Folarin Balogun is always there shows how good he could be, but he needs to score more goals to solidify his spot. There is a good case for Ricardo Pepi to start because he consistently scores goals for both his club and his country.
Gio Reyna, who is always in Berhalter’s side, is being looked at closely because he doesn’t get much playing time at Borussia Dortmund. His lack of game time could make it harder for him to be a starter unless he improves his form in the next few months. By playing defensive middle for Crystal Palace, Chris Richards shows that he is a versatile player who is a key member of the team. Miles Robinson’s fitness could also be a problem, which could make him less available even though he is likely to move to a European club.
In Reserve
These players are young and full of skill, but they are still on the outside, waiting for their chance to join the team. Because of his knowledge and hard work, Brenden Aaronson is one of the possible replacements. Young players like Malik Tillman and Joe Scally can play a lot of different positions, and Drake Callender and Ethan Horvath are competing for the goalkeeper spot while waiting to move clubs.
Luca de la Torre and Johnny Cardoso fight for minutes in the middle of the field, giving the team more options behind the three starters. Kristoffer Lund provides defense cover, and the coach likes how flexible they are. Even though Aaronson had a rough season, his knowledge and unwavering dedication earn him a spot.
The group that might go to the Olympics, which includes Paxten Aaronson, Cade Cowell, and Josh Sargent, has a lot of promise but might be chosen for the Paris Olympics. At the same time, Kellyn Acosta and Walker Zimmerman’s experience makes them strong backups for the team’s main players.
New Olympic Hopes and Plans for the Future
The USMNT has a lot of talented players beyond the current team. For example, Bryan Reynolds, Aidan Morris, and Brandon Vazquez are all prospects who want to be picked up in the future. Gianluca Busio, Mark McKenzie, and Zack Steffen are still very important because of their knowledge and skill, even though they haven’t gotten a confirmed spot.
Younger athletes, like Gaga Slonina and Benjamin Cremaschi, are more likely to want to go to the Olympics, which is a good sign for the future. Deep players like James Sands, Tanner Tessmann, and Reggie Cannon add to the team’s strength, while experienced players like Jesus Ferreira and Kevin Paredes may or may not be included.
Cade Cowell and Paxten Aaronson are two of the younger players who stand out. They are both talented and could become stars in the future. It makes sense for them to be on the Olympic team, which would give them a lot of useful experience and attention.
As the Copa América gets closer, the USMNT is going through an exciting and difficult time. They have to find a balance between known stars and up-and-coming players, all while thinking about the future of American soccer. The team’s makeup will probably change closer to the event, depending on how well they play, how fit they are, and what the manager decides.
