USMNT
MLS 2022 — Top 25 American U21s
Background
I have researched rosters, read preseason reports and watched film, all in preparation to decide who I think will be the most impactful U21 American players in the MLS in 2022. This isn’t a list of the most talented U21s in MLS (born in 2001 or later). It’s a list of who will have the biggest role and who will make the most of that role. This list is based on anticipated amount of minutes, system/style of play fit, the player’s talent level and their supporting cast. Injuries are something we do not hope for nor can we predict, but that will also play a massive role in what young players get an opportunity this season.
LIKELY STARTERS
1 | Gaga Slonina, Chicago Fire (2004)
Club Position: GK / Ideal Position: GK
Gabriel “Gaga” Slonina is a Polish-American who took over as Chicago’s #1 goalkeeper in September of last year at the very young age of 17. It’s very rare for goalkeepers to break through this young. Gaga is a special talent and it will be fun to see him develop this year as Chicago’s #1. He is already the USYNT U20 number 1 and has been called into multiple USMNT camps. Gaga tops the list not just because he is really good, but he is also going to play EVERY game, and while I think Chicago is improved, he is going to have a lot of work to do between the pipes. What’s crazy is that there very well respected analysts out there that think there is another 2004 Chicago goalkeeper with a higher ceiling, Chris Brady, who will likely be Gaga’s backup this year. Club Brugge was interested this winter. Major European clubs are awaiting, for both.
What makes him special
Gaga’s mentality and instincts for the game are pretty incredible for a 17 year old goalkeeper.
Key growth area
His shot stopping technique will continue to improve as he continues to get reps. The tools are there, he just needs to be a little more consistent.
2 | John Tolkin, New York Red Bulls (2002)
Club Position: LB / Ideal Position: LB
John Tolkin isn’t the most well regarded NYRB player on this list, but I think he is going to have the most impact because when he is fit to play, he should be a nailed on starter this year and he will be looking to build a case for a Euro transfer. John played a lot of minutes last year for NYRB and logged one goal and one assist playing LB, LWB and DM. His best position is definitely LB and with Andrew Gutman back to Atlanta after his loan with NYRB, I think John is going to be one of the best LBs in all of MLS. I think John is one of the most underrated USMNT prospects. I rate him above another 2002 LB that is playing in Germany, George Bello. There are reports that Leipzig brass are big fans.
What makes him special
John is a highly technical and instinctual player that knows how to work out of tight situations and read the game defensively. He is also a high level passer and crosser. I expect a 7+ assist season this year.
Key growth area
John doesn’t have the profile to be an elite athlete, but if he can get a little bit stronger and more explosive it will help him increase his ceiling a little bit.
3 | Caden Clark, New York Red Bulls (2003)
Club Position: CM / Ideal Position: AM
Caden Clark is a top 3 player within the 2003 US group. He can play as an 8, 10 or winger. Tom Bogert is projecting a 4-3-3 lineup for NYRB this year and he is also projecting that Caden will start as one of the 8s, which would be fantastic for Caden’s growth and his transition to USMNT. Caden told Tactical Manager in an interview that he played as one of the 8s in the December camp, but plays winger for the U20s.
He was off to a roaring start in MLS last season and was on his way to the 2021 Gold Cup before an appendectomy disrupted his season. He started to regain his high level form at the end of last season and looks to build on that and deliver more consistency this year. It’s been a little bit of a confusing offseason for Caden. He was purchased by RB Leipzig last summer and was planning to move on January 1 of this year, but Leipzig decided to loan him back to New York where both sides felt he could get more playing time and further his development. He is also going to be a key player for the 2023 U20 World Cup and 2024 Olympic qualifying that is happening this summer and being in the USA will make that easier to manage. If he consistently delivers his best stuff, he’ll be in the plans for Leipzig next year and should start garnering more USMNT looks.
What makes him special
His ability to create high quality chances in low probability situations, he is a high level playmaker, with very few glaring gaps in his game.
Key growth area
Consistency, Caden shows flashes of brilliant play, it just comes and goes too often right now.
4 | Cade Cowell, San Jose Earthquakes (2003)
Club Position: LW / Ideal Position: Second Striker
Cade was in and out of the starting lineup last year, but a consistent sub throughout the year. I’m betting on him solidifying a starting role, most likely as a winger, but potentially as a #9 and there are rumblings that he has been playing some wing back in preseason. I’d continue to play him as a #9 until he proves he can’t score consistently. It’s so hard to find high quality strikers, so if Cade can score consistently, that is where he would be most valuable. I like RWB as a plan B if the technical side never materializes too much. Cade will be another player that will play a key role this summer for the US U20s. My hope is he plays as a striker for that team because the depth behind Ricardo Pepi, who likely won’t play for this team, is very thing. If he is a little more consistent at the beginning of the season he will be on his way to Europe this summer or in January. He recently signed a contract extension with SJ and that will help in those negotiations.
What makes him special
His physical profile, Cade is a blue chip athlete with pace and strength that are hard to match.
Key growth area
He is still very raw technically. He shows flashes of dribbling ability, passing and finishing, but it’s highly inconsistent and pretty rough at times.
5 | Tayvon Gray, New York City FC (2002)
Club Position: RB / Ideal Position: RB
Tayvon was mainly a squad player that rarely saw the field for the majority of last season. Tayvon has been primarily a center-back in his academy and YNT days, but when Anton Tinnerholm went down with injury, Tayvon became the starting right-back. He played in every minute of all four of New York City FCs playoff games in route to a MLS Cup, with an assist in the Quarter-Finals against New England Revolution. A game where he also powered through the entire extra time period with injury. I am banking on Tayvon building on that and holding on to the starting RB job once Tinnerholm is back from his injury. If Tayvon has a big year, he may be another American that takes his talents abroad.
What makes him special
He’s a very strong 1v1 defender with a great mentality and awareness due to his youth experience as a central defender.
Key growth area
Tayvon’s ceiling is going to be based on how much he can develop offensively. I saw great strides in this area last year where he became a more effective piece of NYCFCs attack and showed the ability to deliver some dangerous crosses into the box.
6 | Moses Nyeman, DC United (2003)
Club Position: DM / Ideal Position: CM
Moses Nyeman is another talented 2003 that was being considered for the 2021 Gold Cup. Injuries have kept him from joining a recent US U20 camp, but I expect him to be a key player for that team this summer. If he is fit, he should be called to the next U20 camp in March. The big question for me is where he plays. He can play both the 6 and 8 position and the bigger need for the U20s is probably at the 6. For DC, he plays as one of the central midfielders in a 5-3-2. He was starting pretty consistently and coming off the bench last year, but he couldn’t shake the injury bug. It looks like DC is going to rely on youth early in the season and I think Moses is going to have a big role. He is one of the top 10 prospects within a very talented 2003 class.
What makes him special
He has great ball control through his touch, dribbling ability and understanding of how to use his body to protect the ball. He reminds me a lot of Yunus Musah in the way he can carry the ball to break lines, he’s just not quite as dynamic and powerful of an athlete as Yunus.
Key growth area
The easy thing to say here is his size, but I actually don’t think his size shows up often as a problem. He plays bigger than he is and appears to be naturally strong. I’d like to see him arrive more in the box and have more of an impact as a scoring threat.
7 | Leon Flach, Philadelphia Union (2001)
Club Position: CM / Ideal Position: DM
Leon Flach moved from St. Pauli in the 2. Bundesliga in Germany to Philadelphia last year and the move was a very positive step in Leon’s career. Leon had 34 appearances and over 2600 minutes last year for the Union, mostly as central midfielder and at times as a left-back. Leon is high on this list because he is a projected starter on a good team. He isn’t a high ceiling prospect that is going to put up huge numbers, but he is going to have a big impact on the team and he is going to log huge minutes.
What makes him special
He is a consistent, well rounded and low mistake player that makes him very reliable in the midfield.
Key growth area
He needs to develop an above average skill in either his passing and chance creation or his defensive cleanup ability as a more defensive minded midfielder. He’s good at a lot of things, but not really great at anything.
SPOT STARTERS / HIGH IMPACT SUBS
8 | Paxten Aaronson, Philadelphia Union (2003)
Club Position: AM / Ideal Position: AM
Paxten is the younger brother of USMNT and RB Salzburg standout Brenden Aaronson and Paxten is on a very similar trajectory as his older brother. Philadelphia manager, Jim Curtin, has been on the record stating that Paxten is further along in his development than Brenden was at this age. Many believe, including myself, that Paxten’s ceiling is higher than Brenden’s. He’s stronger and has the potential to be a better shooter/finisher. Add Paxten to the list of top 2003s that will be key figures in the upcoming U20 tournaments. Paxten started getting more regular minutes (590 in total) at the end of last season and his first of three was a very impressive goal. He might not get a lot of starts this year, but he’ll be a more consistent impact sub, probably in the area of 900 to 1,000 minutes and I think he’ll shine in that role. This could be the year he joins his brother in Europe.
What makes him special
Paxten is a very good playmaker and creative finisher. He has goals in his legs as they say. He also has that relentless motor that makes his big brother special.
Key growth area
Needs to continue to grow into his body and become stronger so he can take on the wear and tear of a full senior team season.
9 | Ted Ku-DiPietro, DC United (2002)
Club Position: AM, RWB / Ideal Position: AM
Ted is a late bloomer and late homegrown signing that really came on in the latter half of last season for Loudoun United. And what I say came on, I really mean came on. This guy has all of the tools you want in a half space, attacking player. He scored 7 goals and 3 assists for Loudoun last year and I think he is in store for a breakout campaign for a somewhat depleted DC United roster. He will start out as a sub, but I would not be surprised if he became a regular starter for DC United before the end of the year. If that happens, I also think he has the skillset to garner European interest. He’ll likely play as one of the attacking midfielders in DCs 3-4-2-1 system, but he can also play Wingback which will make him even more valuable as a sub. In USL, he logged minutes at every position outside of GK and CB for Loudoun, pretty incredible. If you are looking for a breakout candidate that nobody is talking about, I’d go with Ted.
What makes him special
There is a lot to be excited about. He is strong, fast, he is ball secure and has good dribbling ability and he also arrives well in the box and can score in different ways, but my favorite aspect of his game is his passing ability. He can break lines and he can find and execute that clever final ball that leads to big chances, something the USMNT is really missing through the middle of the field. Keep an eye on this guy!
Key growth area
For me, I just need to see him translate his game at a higher level in MLS. If he does, I think European interest and USMNT opportunities await.
10 | Aidan Morris, Columbus Crew (2001)
Club Position: CM / Ideal Position: DM
Aidan missed all of 2021 due to injury. In 2020, Aidan became a regular sub and spot starter for Columbus and played the full 90 in the 2020 MLS Cup in a 3-0 win for Columbus. I am very fascinated to see how big of a role Aidan plays for Columbus this year. They will likely work him back slowly as a substitute and I would bet Aidan earns a starting spot before the end of the year. Aidan is a very athletic and aggressive, defensive minded midfielder.
What makes him special
His overall defensive game is really fantastic. He has both good awareness, speed and tenacity which make him capable of being that single danger mitigating 6 that the USMNT needs depth at.
Key growth area
If he can become a more consistent and dangerous passer Aidan is going to be a really exciting player.
11 | Quinn Sullivan, Philadelphia Union (2004)
Club Position: CM / Ideal Position: AM
Quinn Sullivan is the second of four 2004s on the list behind Gaga. He is probably the most highly regarded 2004 player in the US player pool. He is another player that has been a consistent U20 callup over the last 5 months and will likely be a key center-mid option for Mikey Varas this summer. For Philadelphia, much like Paxten and Jack McGlynn, Quinn started to see more and more time with the Union last year and showed exciting flashes, including an overhead goal. He recently scored a banger for the U20s in a friendly vs FC Dallas. Quinn is one of the most likely candidates to move to Europe this year or next.
What makes him special
Quinn can really strike the soccer ball with his right foot. He’s a deadly shooter from all ranges. He also has a fierce, highly competitive mentality.
Key growth area
I’d like to see Quinn improve his off ball movement so he can get in more positions to use said deadly right foot.
12 | Brian Gutiérrez, Chicago Fire (2003)
Club Position: AM / Ideal Position: AM, WING
Brian might have been in line for a starting role before Chicago signed Shaqiri a few weeks ago, but even with that signing I expect Brian to have a significant role with the Fire this season and he is pushing for a spot on the US U20 roster. Last year Brian logged over 600 minutes and had an assist. He is a player that has consistently exceeded expectations as a prospect so it might be time to stop overlooking him. He is a bold, attacking playing that can play as a 10 and on the wing. After watching him at the Revelations Cup last year with the U20s, I couldn’t shake how much he reminded me of Matthew Hoppe. He’s fearless, confident and at times a little reckless, but I love his “go for it” mentality and he was one of the few bright players in the first game against Brazil.
What makes him special
I really love Brian’s mentality and the way he plays with reckless abandon. He is fearless and will try whatever feels right in the moment, it’s fun to watch.
Key growth area
I’d like to see him be a little more technically clean with the ball and a little more clinical. He’ll never be a super technical attacker, but a little improvement could go a long way with his confident mentality.
13 | Bryce Duke, Inter Miami (2001)
Club Position: CM, AM / Ideal Position: CM
Bryce was never able to get a consistent run of play from Bob Bradley in LAFC. There was a lot of midfield talent in LA and it didn’t seem like Bob trusted him too much. I think the move to Miami is going to be good for him. You never know what to expect when a young player moves to a new club, but Miami’s midfield is pretty underwhelming and Bryce should get a chance to be a starter in South Beach at some point this season. Bryce is true box to box midfielder that can provide value on offense and defense.
What makes him special
I really like the way Bryce distributes the ball and keeps it moving. He’s got a lot of different types of passes in his repertoire.
Key growth area
I would like to see Bryce become a little more goal dangerous. I think he has the skill set, he just hasn’t scored a lot of goals throughout his young career.
CONSISTENT SUBS
14 | Jack McGlynn, Philadelphia Union (2003)
Club Position: CM / Ideal Position: CM
Jack McGlynn is another Union prospect that saw a decent amount of time last year (600+ minutes) and with the Union trading Monteiro, he could be in for an even bigger role within the midfield. Jack is part of a very talented crop of 2003s and 2004s within Philadelphia’s system (they have five players on this list) and he is another player looking to make the U20 World Cup Qualifying team this summer. I am not as bullish on Jack as some analysts are. I am not sure the technical skills can overcome the physical limitations, but he’s still young and he could develop a little more, physically, as he gets older. It’s hard not to get a little excited about that smooth left foot.
What makes him special
He’s got a very talented left foot that he deploys as both a progressive passer and shooter.
Key growth area
I am hoping he can get a little quicker and stronger. If not, he’ll really need to develop a 6th sense for the game to overcome his mobility limitations.
15 | Matko Miljevic, Club de Foot Montréal (2001)
Club Position: LW / Ideal Position: LW, RW
Matko is an Argentinian-American who developed at the Argentinos Jr Academy in Argentina. There was a weird falling out with the club and after a long period of nothing, he was able to free himself of that contract and he signed with Montreal midway through the 2021 season. I wasn’t super impressed with what I saw from Matko last year. He seems to have lost some quickness from his Boca days and he’s looked a bit out of shape to me. He did one goal last year in five appearances. He was also brought in as a sub in Montreal’s CONCACAF Champion’s League match last week, so he is likely in for a fairly significant role. If Matko can return to his form of a few years ago he is a prospect worth keeping track of.
What makes him special
He has really quick feet which help be an effective 1v1 dribbler.
Key growth area
Fitness. He looked a bit out of shape and a little slow when I saw him in action for Montreal last year.
16 | Josh Atencio, Seattle Sounders (2002)
Club Position: CM / Ideal Position: DM, CB
Josh Atencio is going to be one of the key backup midfielders in Seattle’s 4-2-3-1 system. Last year Josh accumulated over 1,500 minutes and 18 starts because of a series of injuries to the Seattle midfield. I expect to see both of those numbers go down if Seattle has a little better luck. Cristian Roldan, João Paulo and Kelyn Rowe are all likely ahead of him in the depth chart and he’ll be competing with other talented prospects that narrowly missed this list: Danny Leyva, Reed Baker-Whiting and Obed Vargas. Even with this crowded midfield, he should carve out a nice role, especially late in games when Seattle is up and they need to preserve a lead. I still maintain that Josh’s future is at CB, but I’ve heard that Seattle sees him as a midfielder.
What makes him special
He has good defensive awareness, ball security and he can pick out a pass. He’s a little like James Sands with a thicker frame.
Key growth area
If he is going to stick in the midfield I’d like to see him be a bit more ambitious with his passing. He often sticks with the simplest safe play more times than not.
17 | Cameron Duke, Sporting Kansas City (2001)
Club Position: RB, CM / Ideal Position: RB
Cameron has played both as an 8 and as a RB for KC. Jaylin Lindsey is now with Charlotte and even though Graham Zusi is back for another year, he’s getting up there in years and you have to think there will be a fair amount of rotation happening at RB. The good news is I think RB is a better fit for Cameron Duke.
What makes him special
He’s a very pacey player that can break lines with his dribbling ability.
Key growth area
He’s small in stature and that makes him a little bit of a liability defensively, more specifically tackling and in duels. I’d love to see him get a little more consistently stuck in and add a little muscle mass to be more stout defensively.
18 | Ben Bender, Charlotte FC (2001)
Club Position: CM / Ideal Position: CM
Ben was the first overall selection by Charlotte as a Sophomore out of Maryland. At Maryland, Ben a United Soccer Coaches first-team All American after scoring 7 goals and 5 assists in his Soph season. I have not seen Ben play but from what I have read on him he is an intelligent and technical midfielder who is stronger on the offensive side of things. Ben should be able to compete for spot starts and bench minutes in the Charlotte midfield rotation.
What makes him special
Reports are that Ben is a very intelligent and aware midfielder. He is aware of his surroundings and threats and has the technical ability to create positive plays towards goal through dribbling, passing and movement.
Key growth area
Not sure, can’t find tape on him. Defense? We’ll find out.
BACK UPS WHO SHOULD GET AN OPPORTUNITY
19 | George Campbell, Atlanta United FC (2001)
Club Position: RCB / Ideal Position: RCB
If Atlanta was to continue with a three-back formation George would be higher on this list, but it sounds like Atlanta is going to move to a four-back, with two CBs. I don’t see George surpassing Franco anytime soon, but I expect him to get more spot starts than last year and If Miles transfers abroad this summer, that would open up a spot for George to be a locked in starter. It’s also possible that Atlanta uses the 3-back system in some matchups in which case George would be added to the starting lineup.
What makes him special
George is a big and strong guy that has the ability to dominate in the air both defensively and as a set piece weapon, but what I like most about his game is his passing. He can pick out and execute a long diagonal and he is consistently looking for a line breaking pass.
Key growth area
I have noticed a concerning trend with George that he gets caught up field too often and he doesn’t have the foot speed of someone like Miles Robinson to recover. He needs to be more selective with his decisions to press up the field. His profile is very similar to John Brooks, but right footed.
20 | Jalen Neal, LA Galaxy (2003)
Club Position: RCB, LCB / Ideal Position: RCB, LCB
It’s very hard for young CBs to break through because it requires a high level of physicality once you are playing on the first team. Jalen has been getting a bunch of praise from his manager this offseason and I think this could be the year he breaks through, if he does, he might be too low on this list.
What makes him special
He’s got a great feel for the game and a great touch and passing ability. He is one of the better ball playing CBs in the youth pool.
Key growth area
Like most young CBs, he needs to get stronger to be able to consistently compete with full grown, professional strikers.
21 | Isaiah Parker, FC Dallas (2002)
Club Position: LB / Ideal Position: LWB
Isaiah was the third pick in this year’s Super Draft out of Saint Louis University, selected by FC Dallas as a Freshman. At Saint Louis, Isaiah played as a winger and was a Top Drawer Soccer first-team Freshman Best XI team. He scored 3 goals and added 7 assists. For Dallas, the plan is for him to play LB as the primary substitute behind recently traded for Marco Farfan. Isaiah has been getting a lot of minutes in preseason and I think he’ll see a decent amount of time coming on for Marco. I am not super high on Farfan, so I wouldn’t be surprised if Parker pushes for that starting role this season or next.
What makes him special
Isaiah is a pacey, attacking minded player who loves to go at people one on one.
Key growth area
Isaiah is going to need to adjust to the pace of play and build an understanding of how to find solutions in his new position. He’ll also have to learn his various defensive assignments.
22 | Cameron Harper, New York Red Bulls (2001)
Club Position: LW, RW / Ideal Position: LW, RW
Cameron Harper is a Scottish-American who has spent some time within the Celtic Academy. Cameron is a true winger that likes to take defenders on 1v1. I was surprised Cameron didn’t get more time last year. He is a talented player with some intriguing skills. It looks like NYRB is moving to a 4-3-3 system that will leverage more traditional wing play and I think this will be beneficial to Cameron’s success at the club.
What makes him special
Cameron is a very talented dribbling and can consistently beat people in 1v1 situations
Key growth area
Cameron, like a lot of young wingers, needs to become more consistent with his final product.
23 | Daniel Edelman, New York Red Bulls (2003)
Club Position: CDM / Ideal Position: CDM
Daniel Edelman signed a homegrown contract with New York Red Bulls this offseason and was one of the last 2003 born players to do so. Daniel had a nice season with NYRB II last year as the primary defensive midfielder. He also has had a few call-ups with with U20 team. He will be competing with Danny Leyva and potentially Moses Nyeman for the “Tyler Adams” role within the U20 team. He is another player that will benefit from NYRBs move to a 4-3-3. Daniel has the range and tenacity to play the center defensive midfield position that is responsible for cleaning up mistakes in the backline. I expect to see him get regular minutes at some point this season.
What makes him special
Daniel has good pace and I love his defensive bite. He’s the type of play that can be that sideline to sideline cleanup man for the midfield.
Key growth area
He needs to develop a little more to offer going forward. I’d like to see him become a more consistent and aggressive passer.
24 | CALEB WILEY, Atlanta UNITED (2004)
Club Position: LB / Ideal Position: LB
Caleb Wiley is a big reason why Atlanta was comfortable with transferring George Bellow overseas. Caleb has shown an incredible amount of development over the last 1.5 years and became the primary LB for Atlanta II last year. With George Bello off to Germany, Caleb is in line for a role with Atlanta. Andrew Gutman will be the starter but I expect Caleb to earn some minutes and spot starts. Caleb is also very much in the mix for one of the two LB positions within the US U20 squad. This time next year he’ll likely be ranked within the top 10 of this list.
What makes him special
He’s a very good 1v1 defender both from an awareness standpoint and because of his size and speed profile.
Key growth area
He’s been developing nicely as an offensively player, but I’d still like to see him become a more effective crosser.
25 | Brandan Craig, Philadelphia Union (2004)
Club Position: CB, CDM / Ideal Position: CDM
Brandan Craig is the final member of the Philadelphia contingent on this list. Brandan has played as a center-back for the majority of his youth career, but his future might be at defensive-mid and that is his best chance to get minutes with Philadelphia this year. I do think this is the year Brandan breaks through and gets his first minutes with the senior Union team. Brandan was called into the last US U20 camp where he’ll likely play center-back. He’s got the technical ability to play in Europe. The question is whether his physical profile will keep him at CB or move him to DM.
What makes him special
He is silky smooth on the ball and he is a very good progressive passer.
Key growth area
He needs to fill out and get stronger so he is able to consistently compete with grown men.
Club Representation
Philadelphia (5), NYRB (4), Atlanta (2), Chicago (2), DC (2), Charlotte (1), Columbus (1), Dallas (1), Kansas City (1), LA Galaxy (1), Miami (1), Montreal (1), NYCFC (1), San Jose (1), Seattle (1)
Positional Representation (IDEAL POSITIONS)
AM (5), DM (5), CM (4), LB (3), CB (2), Wing (2), RB (2), ST (1), GK (1)
Age Group Representation
2003 (8), 2001 (8), 2002 (5), 2004 (4)
USMNT
Best to Wear the Band
Thomas Deschaine (@uskeeper on X and us_keeper on Instagram)
Who is the greatest captain in the history of the U.S. Men’s National Team? With more than 100 different players having worn the armband over the years, which player truly stood out as the best leader on the field?
In this article, I’ll break down the statistics behind the players who have captained the USMNT the most, as well as those who have worn the armband at the FIFA World Cup. The information was gathered through a combination of U.S. Soccer media guides, match footage, newspaper archives, and various online resources that were cross-checked and confirmed through multiple sources.
Over the last several cycles, the “Captain America” label has often been attached to the face of the USMNT. I believe that trend really began around the 2014 World Cup when Clint Dempsey captained the United States in Brazil.
Today, that title is commonly associated with Christian Pulisic, who became the youngest player ever to captain the USMNT and has worn the armband more than any other player over the last two cycles. However, it has become increasingly clear that Pulisic prefers to lead through his performances on the field rather than serve as the outspoken public voice of the national team.
In some ways, I wish Landon Donovan had taken a similar approach at times instead of trying to carry the burden of being the vocal leader everyone expected him to be. As I often tell my daughter, there are many different types of leaders in sports, and not all of them need to wear the captain’s armband.
There are many fans who believe the captaincy itself doesn’t carry much importance, but I disagree. Leadership matters, and teams need players who can provide direction, accountability, and composure both on and off the pitch. For me, Tyler Adams and Chris Richards are two players who stand out as natural leaders for the present and the future of the USMNT. At the same time, Tim Ream has clearly filled that leadership role throughout the last two cycles.
Below is my list of the top five USMNT captains of all time, along with a breakdown of every player who has captained the national team at least 19 times, a group filled with some of the biggest names and legends in U.S. Soccer history.
Honorable Mention
Tyler Adams, who captained the USMNT at the 2022 World Cup, could become just the second player in team history to wear the armband at back-to-back World Cups. However, his overall number of matches as captain is still relatively low, making it difficult for him to crack the top five on this list at this point in his career.
Mike Windischmann defender, captained the USMNT during one of the most difficult and pressure-filled periods of the program’s modern era, helping lead the team as it fought to qualify for its first World Cup in 40 years, a feat the United States ultimately achieved in remarkable fashion.
#5 – Marcelo Balboa, Thomas Dooley and John Harkes
During the 1994 and 1998 World Cup cycles, these three USMNT trailblazers combined to captain more than 70 matches for the national team. Each was an outstanding leader on the field who consistently supported and elevated their teammates. Dooley was the captain of the 1998 World Cup team.
While choosing three players for the fifth spot may seem like a cop-out, all of them led this group in exactly the way the team needed during that era. Personally, I also prefer my captain to play in defense or as a holding midfielder, as those positions put them in the best spot to organize the team and quickly communicate with referees when attacking players are fouled higher up the field.
#4 – Tony Meola
I generally don’t prefer a goalkeeper to serve as captain, but Tony Meola, who became one of the youngest regular captains in USMNT history following the 1990 World Cup, really stood out to me as both a young soccer fan and aspiring goalkeeper.
His leadership throughout the 1994 World Cup cycle was especially impressive, as he captained the USMNT in nearly 60 matches and established himself as one of the defining leaders of that era.
#3 – Michael Bradley
Michael Bradley’s experience rising through the USMNT system while learning from several great leaders translated well when he became captain in 2015 after Clint Dempsey was stripped of the armband following off-field issues.
Bradley was expected to captain the USMNT at the 2018 World Cup had the team qualified, but unfortunately, he never got the opportunity to lead the United States on soccer’s biggest stage as captain.
#2 – Claudio Reyna
The only player in USMNT history to captain the team at two different World Cups, in 2002 and 2006, Claudio Reyna developed into the type of on- and off-field leader that U.S. Soccer has always been proud to represent.
Being named to four World Cup rosters, playing in three tournaments, and captaining the team in two of them places Reyna in a class of his own in USMNT history.
#1 – Carlos Bocanegra
Without question, my number one choice as the greatest captain in USMNT history is Carlos Bocanegra. Beyond my personal fandom, Bocanegra was an incredible talent and leader for the national team during both the 2009 Confederations Cup and the 2010 World Cup, guiding what I believe was one of the best USMNT squads of all time.
Top 15 USMNT Captains
64 Carlos Bocanegra
59 Tony Meola
48 Michael Bradley
46 Claudio Reyna
40 Mike Windischmann
30 John Harkes
29 Christian Pulisic
27 Tim Ream
25 Kasey Keller
23 Thomas Dooley
20 Clint Dempsey
19 Landon Donovan
19 Marcelo Balboa
14 Peter Vermes
13 Tyler Adams
13 Walter Bahr
USMNT Captains at World Cups
7 Claudio Reyna (2002 & 2006)
4 Carlos Bocanegra (2010)
4 Clint Dempsey (2014)
4 Tony Meola (1994)
4 Tyler Adams (2022)
3 Mike Windischmann (1990)
3 Thomas Dooley (1998)
3 Thomas Florie (1930)
2 Harry Keough (1950)
1 Earnie Stewart (2002)
1 Edward McIlvenny (1950)
1 Francis ‘Hun’ Ryan (1934)
USMNT
USMNT Roster Snubs: Breaking Down the Toughest World Cup Cuts
Thomas Deschaine (@uskeeper on X and us_keeper on Instagram)
Building a roster to compete at a FIFA World Cup isn’t easy. Teams need the proper depth at all positions along with the right balance of chemistry to ensure the needed continuity and balance to ensure a good performance at a World Cup.
Pochettino will be making his decisions over the coming months headed into the camp headed into the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Here’s a look back at each World Cup snubs for the USMNT since 1990 and how and why the players weren’t selected. When looking at the snubbed players ask yourself who you would have removed from the active roster and replaced them with.
1990 – Italy
After a 50-year absence from the World Cup, it was clear that the USMNT roster for the 1990 tournament was focused on youth and laying the groundwork for the 1994 World Cup, which the USA would host. Other notable players who didn’t make the cut included Troy Dayak, Ted Eck, John Kerr, and Frank Klopas.
Ricky Davis (32) – The former USMNT captain and legend wasn’t fit enough to make the roster, even in a leadership role. Despite his experience, Davis was dealing with injuries and ultimately wasn’t selected as the team prioritized a youth movement at the time.
Arnie Mausser (36) – Similar to Davis, Mausser had been the USMNT’s primary goalkeeper for three cycles, but age and injuries ultimately kept him from earning the third goalkeeper spot, as Bob Gansler opted to go with younger options in the pool.
Hugo Pérez (26) – Pérez was coming off an injury, and manager Bob Gansler, along with his staff, felt he wasn’t fully fit. They opted for a younger, more defensive-minded squad built around work rate and fitness. Additionally, reports of tension between Pérez and the coaching staff may have contributed to his exclusion from the roster.
1994 – United States
This cycle may have featured the largest number of snubs from one cycle to the next — or at least it felt that way at the time. The experience of the eight USMNT players selected was considerable, but notable veterans from the 1990 squad missed out. Players like Desmond Armstrong, Brian Bliss, Chris Henderson, and Peter Vermes made the provisional roster but ultimately didn’t secure a spot on the 1994 team. Additionally, 1990 World Cup veterans Kasey Keller and John Doyle were left off the final professional roster.
Jeff Agoos (26) –Agoos was among the final players cut from the 1994 USMNT provisional roster. At the time, the team already boasted strong defensive depth with Marcelo Balboa, Alexi Lalas, Fernando Clavijo, Cle Kooiman, and Mike Burns. Rumor also had it that Bora Milutinović and Agoos weren’t fully aligned on tactics and expected playing time, which likely influenced the decision.
Kasey Keller (24) – Keller, who had been chosen as a backup for the 1990 World Cup, was largely out of the picture for the 1994 USMNT cycle. Bora reportedly didn’t appreciate Keller’s attitude, viewing him as overly confident, and the USSF was frustrated when Keller refused to wear Adidas gloves, the team’s official sponsor at the time.
Dominic Kinnear (26) – Kinnear was among the final three players cut from the USMNT roster in late May. Many believed Bora leaned heavily on players who fit his tactical system and offered greater versatility, filling the attacking and wide roles with individuals he trusted more within that setup.
1998 – France
David Regis, who became eligible to play for the USMNT just weeks before the World Cup, impacted the selection of defenders called into the squad. Several younger players, including John O’Brien and Tony Sanneh, would later feature in future World Cups. Meanwhile, experienced veterans like Chris Henderson and Mike Sorber, both of whom had been part of previous USMNT World Cup squads, were included on the provisional roster but ultimately did not make the final cut.
John Harkes (31) – At the time, this was considered the biggest snub in USMNT history, the omission of a 30-time captain. Steve Sampson explained that Harkes was not meeting the leadership standards expected of a veteran, citing concerns about his attitude, professionalism, and influence in the locker room. Six years later, the true reason behind Harkes’ ‘snub’ would come to light.
Gregg Berhalter (24) – Berhalter, likely affected by David Regis’s inclusion on the USMNT roster, was among the final players cut from the World Cup squad. He would go on to be called up for the next two World Cups
Jovan Kirovski (22) – Kirovski’s youth and limited international experience likely played a role in his omission from the USMNT squad, with more seasoned players like Brian McBride, Eric Wynalda, and Joe-Max Moore in stronger form at the time of the World Cup.
2002 – Korea / Japan
I’d argue there weren’t any truly glaring snubs for the USMNT at this World Cup. Instead, injuries opened the door for a few players on the provisional roster to earn spots with one of the stronger U.S. teams. Notable examples include Brian Maisonneuve, a member of the 1998 World Cup squad, and Jovan Kirovski, who had been on the provisional roster in 1998.
Chris Armas (29) – Armas wasn’t a snub; however, he suffered a knee injury in the first of three World Cup tune-up friendlies against Uruguay. As a result, Pablo Mastroeni stepped in and ultimately received the minutes Armas would have played at the World Cup.
Greg Vanney (27) – Another injury in the USMNT’s second of three tune-up matches against Jamaica opened the door for Steve Cherundolo, who hadn’t been called into those friendlies, to claim the final roster spot for the 2002 World Cup.
Ante Razov (28) – Ante Razov began the 2002 MLS season in red-hot form, scoring eight goals before the World Cup kicked off, but he was competing against a deep and established striker pool that included Clint Mathis, Brian McBride, and Joe-Max Moore.
2006 – Germany
Another World Cup brought its share of misfortune for the 2006 USMNT, as two selected players, Frankie Hejduk and Cory Gibbs, were sidelined with knee injuries, leading to Chris Albright and Gregg Berhalter taking their places. That year, the New England Revolution were performing at an exceptionally high level, with four of their players in consideration for the squad: goalkeeper Matt Reis, midfielders Pat Noonan and Steve Ralston, and striker Taylor Twellman.
Freddy Adu (16) – The media frenzy surrounding Freddy Adu, along with the pressure to fast-track him onto the international stage, had many pundits and fans calling for his inclusion on the 2006 World Cup roster.
Taylor Twellman (26) – Twellman, the 2005 MLS MVP, came into the 2006 season in sensational form, even scoring a hat trick in an early-year friendly, yet he was ultimately left off Bruce Arena’s World Cup squad.
Jonathan Spector (20) & Jay DeMerit (26) – Defenders Jonathan Spector and Jay DeMerit, despite playing regularly in the Premier League at the time, were left off the provisional 2006 World Cup roster, but both would go on to feature in the tournament four years later.
2010 – South Africa
Calling Charlie Davies a snub is difficult, as he was less than a year removed from a serious car accident and had only just returned to training, likely not yet fit enough for the 2010 World Cup. Another injury note was Frankie Hejduk, who once again missed a World Cup due to injury, probably marking his last realistic chance to appear on the tournament stage. Additionally, an injured Jermaine Jones, not yet eligible to play for the USMNT at the time, was another player many believe would have been included in the roster had he been healthy.
Alejandro Bedoya (23) – Bedoya earned his first USMNT cap in 2010 and only appeared in a handful of matches leading up to the World Cup. In the years prior, he had been playing in Sweden’s top division, gaining professional experience but still relatively new to the senior national team stage. He also faced stiff competition in midfield, which made breaking into the final 23-man roster difficult. Bedoya would later become a key figure in the 2014 cycle, starting at the 2014 World Cup.
Sacha Kljestan (24) – Sacha Kljestan contributed during qualifiers and friendlies and was named to the preliminary 2010 World Cup squad, but he was ultimately left off the final 23‑man roster. Although he never made a USMNT World Cup squad, Kljestan remained an important contributor to the national team through the 2018 cycle.
Brian Ching (32) & Eddie Johnson (26) – These two striker omissions are real head-scratchers from a fan’s perspective. Especially after the Davies injury, you could argue that one, or even both, deserved a spot over Edson Buddle, Robbie Findley, and Herculez Gomez, all of whom had been in strong form in the months leading up to the roster selection.
2014 – Brazil
Anyone who has followed the USMNT over the past several cycles know there was a clear-cut snub for the 2014 World Cup, arguably the biggest in U.S. history and the one that affected me most as a fan. Additionally, Clarence Goodson, Benny Feilhaber and Maurice Edu, both members of the 2010 World Cup squad, were also omitted.
Landon Donovan (32) – The most high-profile omission in U.S. Soccer history, Donovan, the all-time leading scorer and veteran of three previous World Cups, was past his prime, yet he still could have contributed at a high level for the USMNT, even in a limited role or as a spot starter if needed.
Eddie Johnson (30) – Considered a snub from the 2010 USMNT World Cup squad, Eddie Johnson ranked in the top 20 for minutes played during the 2014 cycle and was fifth in goals scored for the national team and clearly back-to-back World Cup roster snubs for Johnson.
Tim Ream (26) – Tim Ream, Bolton Wanderers’ Player of the Year for the 2013–14 season (an honor he would also earn the following year), was left off the preliminary roster and seemingly out of Jürgen Klinsmann’s radar during the 2014 cycle.
2018 – Russia
There were no true snubs for the USMNT at this World Cup, since the team failed to qualify. Still, one could argue that veterans such as Michael Bradley, Clint Dempsey, and Tim Howard might have anchored an otherwise younger squad with valuable experience. Bruce Arena suggested that if the USMNT had qualified, he likely would have overhauled the roster, bringing in youth and emerging midfield talents like Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie to complement star Christian Pulisic.
2022 – Qatar
For the first time since 1998, World Cup rosters were expanded, allowing the USMNT to name a 26-man squad for the 2022 tournament. Some of the selections made by Gregg Berhalter and his staff were baffling, most notably the decision to bring four right backs to the World Cup.
John Brooks (29) – John Brooks, a veteran center back and the only player in the USMNT pool with prior World Cup experience, was left off the squad. With Miles Robinson sidelined by a knee injury, Brooks’ experience could have been valuable compared to options like Cameron Carter-Vickers, Aaron Long, or Walker Zimmerman. There was also a belief that Brooks’ skill set did not align with Gregg Berhalter’s tactical approach, contributing to the decision to exclude him.
Ricardo Pepi (19) – Despite strong club form, particularly after his loan to FC Groningen in the Eredivisie, Pepi was omitted from the 26-man roster. The USMNT opted for other striking options like Josh Sargent, Haji Wright, and Jesús Ferreira instead.
Zack Steffen (27) – Zack Steffen fell out of favor with Gregg Berhalter after splitting time as the starting goalkeeper with Matt Turner. There were growing concerns about Steffen’s movement and mobility, reportedly impacted by a lingering knee injury and ongoing back issues.
2026 – United States / Canada / Mexico
With the 2026 World Cup roster set at 26 players, a few notable snubs feel inevitable. That said, I believe Mauricio Pochettino already had the core of his USMNT squad in mind coming out of the March window. From here, much of the focus is likely on player health heading into the May 26 selection show on FOX, where the roster is expected to be revealed between 3–4 PM.
Defensively, it feels like Auston Trusty and Joe Scally could be battling for the same roster spot unless Pochettino decides to leave home another center back or Max Arfsten, which seems unlikely.
The attacking midfield and winger positions are just as competitive. Diego Luna, Gio Reyna, and Alejandro Zendejas may be fighting for two final spots, though there’s always the possibility of a surprise inclusion. A young player like Zavier Gozo could still force his way into the conversation.
Midfield may be the toughest battle of all. Yunus Musah, Gianluca Busio, Jack McGlynn, and potentially the most debated omission if left out, Aidan Morris, are all competing for limited places. With Johnny Cardoso officially out of the World Cup, Morris now feels close to a lock. Still, all of them are battling Pochettino favorites Sebastian Berhalter and Cristian Roldán for what could be the final roster spots.
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