MLS Multiplex
Fansided

USMNT Vs Cuba: The ideal starting XI for Gregg Berhalter

By Adnan Bašić

United States' head coach Gregg Berhalter (L) gives instructions to United States' foward Josh Sargent during the International Friendly football match between the United States and Uruguay at Busch Stadium, in St. Louis, Missouri on September 10, 2019. (Photo by Tim Vizer / AFP) (Photo credit should read TIM VIZER/AFP/Getty Images)
United States' head coach Gregg Berhalter (L) gives instructions to United States' foward Josh Sargent during the International Friendly football match between the United States and Uruguay at Busch Stadium, in St. Louis, Missouri on September 10, 2019. (Photo by Tim Vizer / AFP) (Photo credit should read TIM VIZER/AFP/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
4 of 5
Next
USMNT, Christian Pulisic
Chelsea’s US midfielder Christian Pulisic reacts to a missed chance during the English League Cup third round football match between Chelsea and Grimsby Town at Stamford Bridge in south west London, on September 25, 2019. (Photo by OLLY GREENWOOD / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or ‘live’ services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo credit should read OLLY GREENWOOD/AFP/Getty Images) /

Central Midfield

Defensive Midfielder – Michael Bradley

Since Tyler Adams is still recovering from injury with Bundesliga side Red Bull Leipzig, the USMNT don’t really have anyone to turn to other than Michael Bradley in the center of the park. Many feel he should be nowhere near the team after being captain when the U.S. failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup, and that’s a fair enough claim. but, at present, Bradley is still the best option.

He has enjoyed a decent season for Toronto FC, who ultimately qualified for the playoffs with relative ease. Playing a similar position for them, Bradley’s ability to control the tempo of a game is crucial, especially against weaker opposition. His lack of defensive awareness shouldn’t be badly exposed versus Cuba, and the experience he has will help his younger teammates on the field. Let’s just hope Adams is able to recover as soon as possible so he can take back his rightful spot in the team.

More from MLS Multiplex

Central Midfielder – Weston McKennie

The American who’s had the best start to this season has been Weston McKennie. And it’s not even close. He has appeared in every game so far for Schalke 04 and is really starting to thrive under new boss David Wagner.

McKennie’s best asset is his versatility, meaning he can almost play anywhere on the pitch. Most comfortable in the middle of the park, he has also been used as a winger in the past and even started a few games up-front last year for Schalke. With the U.S., he’s gotten to play in his preferred central midfield spot. That shouldn’t change versus Cuba.

Central Midfielder – Christian Pulisic

He has endured a rough start to life at Chelsea, but Christian Pulisic is still far and away the United’s States’ best player. He’s not gotten many chances to play since arriving in London, but Pulisic has made the most of his opportunities in the team. He’ll be one of the U.S. players most looking forward to the game on Friday night, able to finally be the focal point of a side once again.

He would be the midfielder who is allowed to push forward the most, gaining the freedom to advance into the final third and penalty area. Some argue that Pulisic would be better suited out wide in his natural position, but the U.S. gain more by having him in the middle of the park. It’s easier to get him on the ball and his technical ability creates chances, either for teammates or for himself. The Yanks need him to run the show and Pulisic will hopefully be able to do just that, proving why Chelsea need to be giving him more minutes.

Home/U.S. Soccer