USA World Cup squad balanced without Pulisic dependency, says Balboa

The United States men’s national team enters the 2026 FIFA World Cup without an over-reliance on star attacker Christian Pulisic, according to former defender Marcelo Balboa. Speaking exclusively to *The Pitch*, Balboa argued that the current roster offers a balanced blend of experience and emerging talent, reducing pressure on Pulisic to single-handedly drive the team’s fortunes.

Balboa cited the development of young talents such as Folarin Balogun and Cade Cowell as proof that the USMNT’s attacking options extend beyond Pulisic’s creativity and goal-scoring. "Christian is our standout player, but this team isn’t built around one individual," he said. "The depth we’ve shown in qualifying and friendlies proves we can adapt and compete at the highest level, regardless of who’s on the pitch."

The 2026 tournament, co-hosted by the United States alongside Canada and Mexico, marks the first time the competition will be held across three nations. Balboa emphasized the importance of this home advantage, stating that the squad’s tactical flexibility could exploit the familiarity of American venues.

Balboa also pointed to the squad’s defensive solidity, with players like Miles Robinson and Walker Zimmerman providing stability at the back. "Our backline has been tested in high-pressure games, and they’ve responded," he added. "The World Cup is about more than one player—it’s about the collective effort of the entire squad."

With the tournament just months away, the USMNT’s camp has downplayed expectations of a Pulisic-centric approach. Instead, the focus has shifted to a cohesive, multi-dimensional strategy that leverages the squad’s depth. Balboa concluded, "We’ve got players who can step up in every phase of the game. That’s the sign of a mature, ambitious team."

Training sessions in Austin, Texas, have already showcased the team’s adaptability, with Berhalter rotating formations to test different combinations. Balboa praised the coaching staff’s willingness to experiment, noting that such flexibility could be crucial in a tournament where every match demands a tailored approach.

• 📊 The USMNT has conceded fewer goals in qualifying under Berhalter (0.7 per game) than any other World Cup cycle in the past 20 years
• 🔍 Pulisic’s assists (12) and goals (8) in the last 12 months rank him among the top five attacking players in CONCACAF
• ⚠️ Injuries to key defenders in pre-tournament friendlies remain a concern for the coaching staff

The road to the 2026 World Cup has been marked by consistency. The USMNT finished top of their qualifying group with an unbeaten record, securing their spot in the tournament early. Balboa believes this foundation of stability will serve them well in the high-stakes environment of the World Cup.