Overview
- The team closed the year on a five-match unbeaten run, capped by a 5-1 win over Uruguay against World Cup-bound opposition.
- USA TODAY’s projected 26-man squad reflects the new shape, listing Matt Freese as likely starter in goal over veteran Matt Turner with Patrick Schulte as the third option.
- Defensive choices pivot on the back-three, with Chris Richards seen as an anchor, Alex Freeman boosted by a strong Uruguay showing, and Mark McKenzie and Miles Robinson vying for a center-back slot.
- In midfield, Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie headline a crowded group that includes Malik Tillman and Gio Reyna, while Yunus Musah is described as on the bubble given form and minutes.
- The front line features Christian Pulisic, Tim Weah and Folarin Balogun in the projected XI as Pulisic scores a Milan derby winner, Weah nets for Marseille, and Tillman logs a goal and assist for Leverkusen; injuries to Cameron Carter-Vickers (Achilles) and Antonee Robinson’s knee status remain key variables.