Introduction

As the 2025-26 soccer season unfolds, the U.S. Men's National Team (USMNT) faces a pivotal period under the guidance of head coach Mauricio Pochettino. With a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, the team's dynamics are more intriguing than ever. This article delves into the top 50 USMNT players, ranked by their club performances, offering insights into who's excelling and who's falling short.

Methodology

The rankings are based on three key factors:

1. Playing Time: The percentage of available minutes each player has participated in.
2. Team Quality: The strength of the player's club team, as per Opta's power rankings.
3. Player Valuations: Crowdsourced salary data from Transfermarkt, providing a proxy for player quality.

Top Performers

1. Christian Pulisic, AC Milan

   • Despite limited minutes under new manager Massimiliano Allegri, Pulisic has shown his worth with crucial goals.

2. Antonee Robinson, Fulham

   • Although recovering from injury, Robinson's defensive prowess and attacking contributions remain unmatched.

3. Malik Tillman, Bayer Leverkusen

   • Tillman has made a strong start, scoring in his first match, though managerial changes at Leverkusen add uncertainty.

4. Johnny Cardoso, Atletico Madrid

   • Cardoso has been a consistent presence in midfield, contributing significantly to Atletico's play.

5. Weston McKennie, Juventus

   • Despite limited initial playing time, McKennie's off-ball movement and experience keep him in the top ranks.

Notable Mentions

• Tyler Adams, AFC Bournemouth: Known for his defensive skills, Adams continues to be a key player despite Bournemouth's chaotic style.
• Folarin Balogun, Monaco: Balogun's recent performances suggest he could be a starter for the USMNT in the upcoming World Cup.
• Sergiño Dest, PSV: Dest's progressive passing and carrying make him a standout, despite defensive weaknesses.

Players Missing from the Top 50

Several players, including Jonathan Klinsmann, Matt Freese, and Tim Ream, did not make the cut due to lower projected transfer values and limited playing time. Injuries have also sidelined potential contributors like Patrick Agyemang and Brandon Vázquez.

Conclusion

As the season progresses, these rankings will evolve, reflecting players' performances and team dynamics. For now, Christian Pulisic leads the pack, but with Pochettino's unpredictable roster decisions, the landscape of the USMNT remains fluid. Stay tuned for more updates as we track the journey of these top performers towards the 2026 World Cup.