Three USMNT Standouts Shine Ahead of the 2026 World Cup
As the countdown continues toward the 2026 FIFA World Cup, three emerging U.S. Men’s National Team stars—Alex Zendejas, Max Arfsten, and Folarin Balogun—have strengthened their cases for key roles next summer. September’s international window offered head coach Mauricio Pochettino another chance to expand his talent pool, and several players seized the spotlight despite mixed results on the field.
The USMNT opened the window with a disappointing 2–0 loss to South Korea, struggling to generate attacking rhythm or defensive organization. But the squad quickly rebounded, delivering a composed 2–0 win over Japan, and three players in particular made a powerful impression on Pochettino’s evolving plans.
⭐ Alex Zendejas — A Statement Return
After being left out of the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup squad, Alex Zendejas returned with purpose.
Against South Korea, he entered as a substitute and immediately injected creativity, urgency, and forward pressure. His performance earned him a starting role versus Japan—his first U.S. appearance since the 2023 Gold Cup—and he did not disappoint.
Playing in a more central attacking role rather than his usual wide position, Zendejas showcased intelligent movement and clinical finishing, scoring the opener and controlling pockets of space in the final third.
Pochettino praised him afterward:
“We’re very happy with him. Performances like this make us rethink our roster. He is absolutely competing for a World Cup spot.”
⭐ Max Arfsten — A Breakthrough at Wingback
Pochettino shifted to a back-three system against Japan, opening a new tactical door—and Max Arfsten walked through it confidently.
Typically a fullback in a traditional back four, Arfsten thrived as an attacking wingback. He stretched Japan’s defensive line, delivered threatening crosses, and assisted Zendejas’ goal with a perfectly timed service.
Though his defensive consistency still needs refinement, his dynamic offensive qualities and fearlessness on the ball give Pochettino valuable flexibility.
The coach’s assessment was glowing:
“We trusted him from day one. His intelligence and personality are special.”
⭐ Folarin Balogun — The No. 9 the U.S. Has Been Waiting For
The U.S. has long searched for a reliable striker, and Folarin Balogun may finally be the answer.
While Josh Sargent struggled in the Korea match, Balogun looked explosive and composed versus Japan. The Monaco striker stretched defenses, linked intelligently with Zendejas and Christian Pulisic, and played a key role in the second U.S. goal.
Despite joining camp late due to injury recovery, Balogun delivered exactly what the U.S. has been missing: aggression, movement, and clinical instincts.
Pulisic summed it up best:
“He gives us so many attacking options—on the ball, off the ball, everything. He changes how teams defend us.”
🇺🇸 A Growing Player Pool and Renewed Confidence
One year into his tenure, Mauricio Pochettino has evaluated over 70 players, determined to build the deepest U.S. squad in modern history ahead of hosting the World Cup.
The September window highlighted a shift in mentality: resilience, internal competition, and tactical adaptability.
With the World Cup on home soil fast approaching, the rise of Zendejas, Arfsten, and Balogun gives the
USMNT a promising trio of fresh weapons—and momentum at exactly the right time.