Patrick Agyemang Battles for His World Cup Dream as USMNT Weekend Action Heats Up
Patrick Agyemang's transfer to Derby County in England's Championship from MLS represented a significant risk. Halfway through his debut European campaign, is he positioning himself for inclusion in the U.S. men's national team's World Cup squad?
His impressive performances with Charlotte FC in MLS had established Agyemang as a leading candidate for the North American-focused 2025 Gold Cup roster, displaying glimpses of his potential under USMNT manager Mauricio Pochettino's leadership.
Following his overseas transfer, the 25-year-old experienced a decline in form. Agyemang encountered difficulties securing USMNT selection opportunities. His rapid progression from Rhode Island collegiate soccer through MLS Next Pro, MLS, and now England's second division has been remarkable, though marked by challenges at every level.
After initial difficulties adapting to Derby County, his performances and offensive contributions have shown marked improvement, placing him in consideration for both the USMNT's March exhibitions against Germany and Portugal, as well as the final World Cup roster.
At an imposing 6'4" and utilizing his lengthy stride to create separation from defenders, Agyemang has netted nine goals across 26 league matches this campaign, frequently operating as the lone forward in Derby's 4-2-3-1 formation.
With goals in three of his previous four outings against Preston North End, West Bromwich Albion and Bristol City, he approaches this weekend's encounter with Ipswich Town seeking to extend his impressive scoring run. Victory for his seventh-positioned team could elevate them past Wrexham into Championship playoff contention.
For Agyemang, maintaining consistent performance levels while securing his place in a competitive USMNT striker rotation remains paramount. Fortunately, he's displaying his finest form since May 2025—when he last found the net in consecutive matches against D.C. United and Chicago Fire in MLS.
How to Watch Agyemang's Search for a Three-Game Goal Streak
How to Watch Agyemang's Search for a Three-Game Goal Streak
Noahkai Banks Making World Cup Roster Push
Noahkai Banks Making World Cup Roster Push
Noahkai Banks' performances have reached a level where Pochettino must seriously contemplate his World Cup inclusion, assuming such considerations haven't already begun. The 19-year-old central defender, operating within FC Augsburg's three-man backline, has delivered outstanding displays that generate considerable optimism about his prospects.
Despite missing the Bayern Munich fixture two weeks prior due to suspension, he bounced back with an impressive performance that helped secure a 2–1 victory over FC. St. Pauli, lifting his team to 11th in the Bundesliga standings.
Banks has accumulated 1,253 minutes in Germany's premier division this season and is poised to exceed last year's total when facing Mainz, who feature compatriot Lennard Maloney.
How to Watch Noahkai Banks This Weekend
How to Watch Noahkai Banks This Weekend
Malik Tillman's Crazy Form
Malik Tillman's Crazy Form
Malik Tillman, who is vying for a starting position as the USMNT's primary playmaker, has delivered exceptional output in recent weeks that few players can match.
He headlines a significant American showdown this weekend when Bayer Leverkusen faces Borussia Mönchengladbach—Tillman represents Bayer while Gio Reyna and Joe Scally are key figures for their opponents.
Of the trio, Tillman's recent displays are particularly compelling. He's found the back of the net three times across two matches in the past week, although he was absent from the 3–0 DFB Pokal triumph over St. Pauli.