USMNT: Best XI for 2020
By John Harbeck
![EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - SEPTEMBER 6: Sergino Dest #18 of the United States moves with the ball during a game between Mexico and USMNT at MetLife Stadium on September 6, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by John Dorton/ISI Photos/Getty Images). EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - SEPTEMBER 6: Sergino Dest #18 of the United States moves with the ball during a game between Mexico and USMNT at MetLife Stadium on September 6, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by John Dorton/ISI Photos/Getty Images).](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/f3a56472009064be1ecdb9c041588d6717ab2719b6cf2651a6b55ac27fb73126.jpg)
As the USMNT enters a busy 2020, there are many different options as to what the best line-up might be. So, here is the MLS Multiplex Bext XI for 2020.
The U.S. Men’s National Team has many different types of tournaments to look forward to in the new year, from a potential Olympic run, CONCACAF Nations League final, World Cup qualifying and a number of friendlies. What I’d like to look at is how the USMNT should line up in a must-win match.
Sure, there are going to be individual matches that players are rotated in to give those players a look, but this is the XI that, health permitting, should be selected for a must-win one-off match. One final caveat, all players regardless of injury status will be considered.
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So, here is the MLS Multiplex USMNT Best XI for 2020.
Goalkeeper
The goalkeeping decision can essentially be broken down to if you want experience or a younger but better player. On one hand, Brad Guzan has played many big matches and has a well-established reputation as a sturdy goalkeeper who, while not spectacular, can provide a steady hand. The flip side is Zack Steffen is a potential star in the making, essentially keeping Fortuna Dusseldorf afloat in the Bundesliga.
If I’m in a must-win match, I’m going to take the high upside goalkeeper who can single-handedly keep a team in the match. That is what Tim Howard did against Belgium in the World Cup and I believe that Steffen can be that guy for 2020.