With the 2026 World Cup just 10 months away, GOAL ranks the top 10 USMNT players heading into the European season
Mauricio Pochettino has just about reached his one-year mark in charge of the U.S. men's national team. It's been an up-and-down year, to say the least, with the USMNT winning just nine of his first 16 games at the helm. Yet, with just 10 months remaining until the World Cup, there's reason for optimism as several of the USMNT's top stars begin to kick off their seasons in Europe.
The weeks since the USMNT's Gold Cup final loss to Mexico have been a wild ride, just as the tournament itself was. There have been several massive transfers, including some of the team's most important players. There have also been moves for several players looking to rise up the ranks.
The weight of the World Cup is felt by all, particularly as seasons fully start in Europe. Where do the top USMNT players stand? Who is ready to flourish, and who still has a point to prove?
GOAL breaks down the top 10 Americans Abroad.
Getty Images Sport10Johnny Cardoso: Atletico Madrid
A difficult one to place because he has been so Jekyll and Hyde. With the USMNT, he's never really broken out. But at the club level? He's been spectacular.
That's why Cardoso is now with Atletico Madrid, having made a big-money move from Real Betis this summer. Since arriving in Spain, Cardoso has proven to be one of La Liga's top midfielders, earning a spot with one of La Liga's top clubs. He'll now work under manager Diego Simeone, whose ferocity and intensity are the stuff of legend.
If Simeone sees something in Cardoso, there has to be something there. Now, about translating to the USMNT… We'll have to see if Cardoso gets another chance to do so in September after dealing with injuries throughout the summer run.
AdvertisementGetty Images Sport9Sergino Dest: PSV
It's easy to forget just how good Dest is in a USMNT shirt, largely because it's been so long since we've seen it. Dest is back, though, and already starring for PSV – a huge development for both the Dutch club and the national team.
After returning from his ACL tear towards the end of last season, Dest looks back to his best to start this campaign. He scored the game-winner in PSV's Supercup win over Go Ahead Eagles, offering a swift reminder of what he adds to the attack. The U.S. has lacked that since his injury, but the good news is that they should have it in September.
Getty8Tim Weah: Marseille
Like Cardoso, Weah made a big decision this summer, sealing the switch to Marseille. He leaves Juventus for a return to Ligue 1 and joins the club his father played for in his final stop in Europe. It's a cool move, in that regard. It's also one that is vital for the USMNT.
Weah was involved at Juve, but was never really given the freedom or backing of a starter. Perhaps he'll get that at Marseille. His versatility will surely be an asset, as new manager Roberto De Zerbi could count on the American to play in any number of positions at a high level.
The USMNT, meanwhile, will just want Weah playing after missing their winger so much during this summer because of the Club World Cup commitment.
AFP7Ricardo Pepi: PSV
Another PSV star on the list, and another PSV star on his way back from injury. Pepi, who is now PSV's go-to No. 9, has been featuring throughout preseason as the club looks to build him up following his own long-term absence.
He featured off the bench in the win over Go Ahead Eagles but, make no mistake: PSV has positioned Pepi to be the guy this season. Pepi will not feature this weekend, due to "fluid in his knee," per manager Peter Bosz.
But bigger picture, If he can hit last season's numbers – which came largely as second choice – Pepi could put up Golden Boot numbers this season.
