USMNT Stars Shine Bright: Ranking the Four Standout Performers Leading America's World Cup 2026 Charge
In previous years, the U.S. men's national team coaching staff would utilize a January training camp to evaluate players, typically featuring friendly matches for North America-based athletes. However, in 2026, head coach Mauricio Pochettino and U.S. Soccer chose a different approach, emphasizing European club performance and concentrated MLS preseason preparations.
Although some leading USMNT stars such as Christian Pulisic and Folarin Balogun failed to deliver impressive performances over the weekend, numerous peripheral players excelled as they pursued greater roles within the national team framework.
With the European emphasis continuing, the week also witnessed MLS clubs launching their preseason activities, with several scheduled to participate in preseason contests of different intensities throughout the coming weeks before the league kicks off on Feb. 21.
Below, Sports Illustrated evaluates the four standout displays of the week from American athletes worldwide.
4. Aidan Morris (Middlesbrough)
Aidan Morris has begun finding his rhythm with Middlesbrough and maintained his reliability with a complete 90-minute performance in a 3–2 victory against West Bromwich Albion on Friday.
A product of the Columbus Crew academy system, Morris excelled in the American-filled encounter, facing off against George Campbell and Darryl Dike, both featuring in West Brom's inaugural match under new manager Eric Ramsay, formerly of Minnesota United.
Building on his developing chemistry in a 4-4-2 midfield partnership alongside Hayden Hackney, Morris generated two scoring opportunities and completed 20 passes into the attacking zone, while also recording six ball recoveries.
Though unlikely to be a World Cup starter, his performances throughout 2025–26 could position him as a valuable squad rotation option this summer.
3. James Sands (FC St. Pauli)
Another graduate of an MLS development program, former New York City FC midfielder James Sands scored his maiden Bundesliga goal during FC St. Pauli's 3–2 defeat to Borussia Dortmund.
Saturday's loss represented the 16th consecutive start for Sands with St. Pauli this campaign, marking his first goal or assist in a season where his team occupies the bottom position after 17 fixtures.
Beyond his strike, the 25-year-old crafted two scoring chances and contributed six defensive actions in a rally attempt that ultimately came up short.
While not expected to contend for the 2026 World Cup roster, considering his 14 international appearances, any consistent offensive output would certainly capture Pochettino's attention.
2. Patrick Agyemang (Derby County)
The forward competition for the USMNT continues to intensify, and 2025 Gold Cup starter Patrick Agyemang is making sure he remains in the conversation as a reserve option behind expected primary choice, Folarin Balogun.
The former Charlotte FC forward scored for Derby County in a 1–0 triumph over Preston North End on Saturday, elevating his team to 12th place in the English Championship standings.
With seven goals and four assists across 23 appearances this season, he has emerged as one of the more reliable American attacking players, surpassing performers like Norwich City's Josh Sargent, who was relegated from the Canaries' starting lineup while seeking a move to Toronto FC.
Beyond his 89-minute contribution, Agyemang spearheaded the post-game festivities between Derby's squad and supporters, demonstrating how rapidly he has integrated into the club since his summer arrival.
1. Tim Weah (Marseille)
Tim Weah played a pivotal role in Marseille's commanding 5–2 victory over Angers in Ligue 1 competition on Sunday, netting his second goal of the 2025–26 season.
His strike arrived as Marseille's fourth before the interval as he made a delayed run into the penalty area, before leaping to meet an aerial cross from Hamed Traore, which he directed past the keeper to complete an exceptional opening half for the southern French club.
The 25-year-old served a crucial connecting function, delivering essential combinations with Mason Greenwood, operating slightly centrally and ahead of him in the 3-4-2-1 formation. Greenwood's goal for a 2–0 advantage originated from Weah's clever hesitation on the right flank, before he passed to the former Manchester United forward, who executed a swift one-two with Emerson before converting.
With three goal involvements in 1,067 Ligue 1 minutes, Weah aims to sustain his momentum as a probable World Cup roster certainty, competing for crucial playing time to demonstrate his abilities in the USMNT's remaining four exhibition matches.