USMNT 2026 World Cup roster outlook: Center back

As the 2026 World Cup inches closer, the USMNT roster is starting to come into focus, at least at most positions. While the goalkeeper position is a little murky, fans can feel somewhat comfortable with how things look at center back. At the moment, the U.S. could just about roll out three sets of center backs and feel comfortable doing so. That’s not to say the USMNT has loads of world-class defenders, but the combination of depth, talent, and experience should limit any serious concerns about center back less than a year away from the 2026 World Cup.

The starters

Given his emergence at Crystal Palace over the past two seasons and his heroics throughout the Gold Cup this past summer, Chris Richards can be penciled in as a starter during the 2026 World Cup. In fact, one might put his name in pen to start the World Cup opener next June. The 25-year-old is starting to fulfill his potential and could be among the USMNT’s most reliable players at the 2026 World Cup.

Meanwhile, Tim Ream is close to solidifying a spot as a starter. He started all four games at the 2022 World Cup and has continued to be a regular starter for the USMNT, pairing with Richards during the Gold Cup. Granted, Ream will be 38 next summer. He’s also no longer playing against top competition after returning to MLS from Fulham last year. However, Ream is yet to surrender to Father Time and could be the best option to pair with Richards when the World Cup begins.

Quality depth

Even if there are lingering questions about Ream’s age, there are good options behind him, most notably Mark McKenzie, Miles Robinson, Cameron Carter-Vickers, and Auston Trusty. McKenzie is likely first in line if there is an opening in the starting lineup. He has done well to work his way up the ladder and is now playing in one of Europe’s big-five leagues with Toulouse in France. McKenzie has more than 20 caps and has faced quality international opponents.

Robinson, despite not making a move to Europe, continues to play at a high level, being named an MLS all-star in 2025. He’s made 35 international appearances and scored a massive goal in the 2021 Gold Cup final. Robinson brings size and athleticism to the table, not to mention the versatility to deputize at right back or play in a three-center-back formation. That could make him a useful chess piece to have on the World Cup roster.

Mauricio Pochettino seemed to prefer McKenzie and Robinson as the backups to the Gold Cup, taking them in favor of Carter-Vickers and Trusty. The two Celtic teammates are both in the prime of their careers and would bring quality depth to the World Cup roster, especially after getting Champions League experience with Celtic last season, with more on the way this season. Carter-Vickers saw some action during the 2022 World Cup, while Trusty is the best left-footed center back in the player pool outside of Ream.

Digging Deeper

If those six center backs aren’t enough, the USMNT player pool goes even deeper at that position. Walker Zimmerman is past his prime, but still brings valuable leadership and experience to the table. George Campbell could put himself on the radar if he can hit the ground running after a summer transfer to West Bromwich Albion. Jalen Neal is also someone to monitor, as the 21-year-old made six appearances for the USMNT in 2023 when he was still a teenager. Of course, it could take multiple injuries to the top six players for Zimmermann, Campbell, or Neil to be called upon in 2026.

The bottom line

The U.S. only carried four center backs on the 2022 World Cup roster, so there could be some deserving players left off the 2026 World Cup roster, even if Pochettino decides to bring five center backs. As mentioned, Richards is a safe bet to make the roster and be a starter. Ream, even if his form drops off a little, should make the roster because of his leadership and experience.

In all likelihood, McKenzie will be able to solidify a roster spot, potentially pushing Ream for the starting spot next to Richards. That would leave Robinson, Carter-Vickers, and Trusty fighting for the final center back spot, although two of the three could potentially make the roster. Each brings a distinct skill set to the table, which could factor into Pochettino’s selection. Of course, it’s also critical that each is playing well for their club heading into the 2026 World Cup. 

The good news is that the USMNT will have quality candidates fighting for roster spots at center back. That makes center back a position of strength and an area where the U.S. should be better able to survive an injury or two. That being said, an injury to Richards would be a serious hit, as he looks poised to be a star for the USMNT during the World Cup.