In an increasingly contested era, who will Gregg Berhalter choose as the USMNT’s number one goalkeeper? Well, here are the top three goalkeepers to start for this summer’s CONCACAF Gold Cup.
Ever since his breakout postseason two years ago with Gregg Berhalter’s Columbus Crew, Zack Steffen has been widely viewed as the U.S. Men’s National Team’s first-choice goalkeeper. In the March international window, however, the future Manchester City keeper came down with a minor knee injury and was forced to go home.
Berhalter elected to call in Jesse Gonzalez, the FC Dallas stopper who chose to play for the Stars and Stripes over El Tri back in 2017. The camp then contained Jesse Gonzalez, Ethan Horvath, and Sean Johnson. This is certainly an odd mix of goalkeeping talent, and it got me wondering who Berhalter would roll with come time for the Gold Cup this summer.
So, here are early predictions for the three keepers Berhalter will bring to the Copa Oro.
3. Brad Guzan
Bill Hamid ruffled some feathers recently when he claimed to be superior to USMNT veteran Brad Guzan before their respective sides clashed in MLS action. Hamid and D.C. United came out victorious, slipping two goals past Guzan. Nevertheless, Hamid’s claims still feel a bit exaggerated.
Sorry, Hamid. Like it or not, Guzan offers a veteran presence, and, with Berhalter electing to play the likes of Tim Ream, it is clear that he values experience and leadership.
Guzan fits the bill, and although there may be more exciting keepers who have yet to develop like Jonathan Klinsmann, it is likely that Berhalter will bring along the former Aston-Villa man this summer.