USMNT World Cup hopefuls Josh Sargent and Yunus Musah face squad omission
Former United States regulars Josh Sargent and Yunus Musah are at serious risk of missing Mauricio Pochettino’s 2026 World Cup squad due to inconsistent club form and fierce positional competition.
The USMNT fielded the youngest roster at the 2022 tournament in Qatar.
There was widespread optimism that this youthful core would naturally peak for the upcoming home tournament.
However, several promising talents have failed to maintain their upward trajectory over the past four years.
Head coach Pochettino is now preparing to finalise his selection ahead of next month’s official roster reveal.
Striker competition leaves Sargent vulnerable
Sargent started two crucial matches during the previous World Cup at just 22 years of age.
The Missouri-born forward initially established himself as a reliable goalscorer in England with Norwich City.
Yet a recent transfer to Major League Soccer side Toronto FC has coincided with a sharp dip in his international prospects.
Competition for the central attacking roles has intensified dramatically.
The Toronto striker has fallen behind several European-based alternatives in the pecking order.
- AS Monaco forward Folarin Balogun
- PSV Eindhoven goalscorer Ricardo Pepi
- Coventry City talisman Haji Wright
A debilitating 14-game goal drought over the winter severely damaged his statistical standing.
He now ranks behind his main rivals in vital metrics, including shot conversion rate and expected goals.
Even with Derby County forward Patrick Agyemang currently sidelined by injury, securing a designated striker spot appears highly unlikely.
Midfield struggles for former prodigy
Yunus Musah started every match for the United States during their run to the last 16 in Qatar.
The 23-year-old was deservedly crowned U.S. Soccer’s Young Male Player of the Year in 2022.
Four years later, the dynamic midfielder is struggling to secure consistent playing time at club level.
His lack of regular domestic football presents a significant tactical dilemma for the national team setup.
Pochettino must now decide whether to rely on past tournament experience or ruthlessly reward current club form.
