Top Midfielders & Goalkeepers: Brady, Freese, Turner, Arfsten, Dest’s MLS & European Impact

The U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) has revealed its preliminary 55-player squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Chicago Fire midfielder Chris Brady among the standout selections. The announcement, led by head coach Gregg Berhalter and technical director Marco Pochettino, marks a significant step toward the tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

A Squad Built on Experience and Emerging Talent

The list, published by FotMob, includes a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, reflecting the USMNT’s strategy to blend continuity with fresh energy. Brady, who has been a key figure for Chicago Fire in MLS, joins a group that also features Matt Freese (New York City FC), Matt Turner (New England Revolution), and Max Arfsten (Columbus Crew). Sergino Dest, a standout forward for PSV Eindhoven in the Eredivisie, is another notable inclusion, highlighting the team’s focus on European-based players.

Pochettino, who recently took over as technical director, emphasized the squad’s depth and versatility. “This group represents the best of American soccer,” he said in a statement. “We have players with World Cup experience, young talents ready to step up, and a core that can lead us into the tournament with confidence.”

Key Figures and Their Roles

The squad includes several players who have already made their mark in international competitions:

• Chris Brady (Chicago Fire): A defensive midfielder known for his tactical intelligence and leadership on the field.
• Matt Freese (New York City FC): A creative midfielder who has been a consistent performer in MLS.
• Matt Turner (New England Revolution): The experienced goalkeeper, who has been a mainstay for the USMNT in recent years.
• Max Arfsten (Columbus Crew): A young defender with strong defensive capabilities.
• Sergino Dest (PSV Eindhoven): A dynamic forward who has been a key player for PSV and the Netherlands youth teams, now representing the USMNT.

What Comes Next

The 55-player list will be narrowed down to a final 26-man squad ahead of the World Cup, with training camps and friendlies scheduled to help finalize selections. The USMNT’s preparation will also include matches against strong international opponents to test the squad’s cohesion and readiness.

As the 2026 World Cup approaches, the focus remains on building a team capable of competing at the highest level. With a mix of experience and youth, the USMNT aims to make a strong showing in what will be its home tournament.