The four year hiatus of the most popular sporting event in the world is coming to an end. The 2022 World Cup will be played from November 20 to December 18 in the country of Qatar. The buildup to the world cup is jam packed with exciting releases such as the groups for the group stage, the jerseys each team will wear, and the ball that will be used. More exciting than those, however, is when the rosters are released. Conversations about fresh faces and disappointing snubs circle the globe. The job for the United States Men’s National Team head coach Gregg Berhalter was to select the most fitting players to bring to Qatar. On November 9, he released the 26 man list of Americans who will be representing their country this winter. It will be useful for Americans, soccer fans and non-fans alike to know a little about the squad.

Let’s start with the most exciting players on the field. Forwards. 

Beginning this article with anyone but Christian Pulisic would be criminal. Pulisic is the biggest name in United States soccer. He’s been gaining popularity since he debuted professionally at only 16 years of age in one of the world’s strongest leagues in Germany. Recently, he led the United States Men’s National Team in scoring during World Cup Qualifying. Pulisic is nicknamed “Captain America” for his elite skill, leadership, and wearing of the number 10 jersey. The other big-name forwards on the squad are Josh Sargent, Tim Weah, and Brenden Aaronson. Aaronson, number 11 for the national team, is an exciting young player who is a key member of the Premier League team Leeds United. He was joined at Leeds by his now World Cup teammate Tyler Adams.

Tyler Adams is the heart of the United States’ midfield. He captained the team in every game but once during World Cup Qualifying. He wears the number 4 jersey and facilitates the team up and down the field. Adams is joined in the midfield by some extremely young and talented studs. One of which is Gio Reyna. Reyna is only 19 years old, but has been successful as a professional in Germany and will play a crucial role for the United States. Another 19 year old is Yunnus Musah. Musah wears number 6 and electrifies the team with his lighting speed. He has scored some beautiful goals while playing professionally in the top league in Spain. The most all-around effective player in the midfield, and maybe on the whole team, is Weston McKennie. McKennie, who wears the number 8, is immensely creative and will need to be at his best for the United States to make a run. 

Although many of the United States Men’s National Team’s stars play higher up the field, the back line is filled with efficiency and is the backbone of the team. One of the oldest players on the team, Walker Zimmerman, is also one of the best defenders on the team. Zimmerman has twice won Defender of the Year in Major League Soccer for Nashville SC. He will wear number 3 and be the anchor of this team. The fullbacks on this roster are dynamic. First is number 5 Antonee Robinson. Robinson is a vital part of the team and will play every minute at left-back if he is healthy. On the other side of the pitch is Sergiño Dest. Dest, number 2, is a defender. However, he has deadly passing and shooting abilities that could help the United States if they are lacking offense. 

Last, but certainly not least, are the Goalkeepers. Who will start is unknown, but we know it comes down to Sean Johnson and Matt Turner. Both have rewarded Gregg Berhalter for his confidence when called upon, so it will be an exciting surprise to see who takes the field between the pipes on November 21 against Wales.