USMNT Icons Reveal Their Dream Starting XI for the 2026 World Cup on Home Soil
The 2026 FIFA World Cup hosted across North America draws nearer with each day that passes after the completion of the Concacaf Gold Cup and FIFA Club World Cup. The upcoming major tournament taking place on American, Canadian, and Mexican territory will represent the globe's most significant sporting spectacle.
The latter continues to present more uncertainties than solutions regarding the optimal starting eleven, positional assignments, and the team's potential tournament performance.
Tim Howard and Landon Donovan, two legendary figures of the USMNT, shared their preferred starting formations on their Unfiltered Soccer podcast.
Tim Howard's USMNT Starting XI in 2026 (4-4-1-1)
Landon Donovan's USMNT Starting XI in 2026 (4-3-3)
Notable parallels between both selections encompass the majority of defensive, midfield, and offensive choices. Each opted for Colorado Rapids keeper Zack Steffen between the posts despite his recent return to international duty in January after previously losing his starting position to Matt Turner.
Matt Freese performed admirably as goalkeeper throughout the Gold Cup, yet both legends favored Steffen, which could indicate Mauricio Pochettino's direction for the upcoming year.
Donovan provided himself flexibility regarding McKennie based on concerns about the player's drive. Should McKennie fall short of expectations, Donovan would prefer seeing Tanner Tessmann alongside Adams. Donovan favored Carter-Vickers over Ream, though the defensive setup beyond left center-back remained identical. Apart from formation, the sole personnel distinction in their lineups involved the striker role.
Howard discussed with Sports Illustrated during the Gold Cup and emphasized that the forward position remains the most significant concern area. Balogun attracted attention when he switched his international commitment to the U.S., yet Donovan continues to favor PSV Eindhoven striker Pepi. The Eredivisie talent is recovering from injury while seeking to impress Pochettino before 2026.