New York, November 28, 2025
The United States Men’s National Soccer Team (USMNT) has updated its 2026 World Cup Big Board 3.0, officially reinstating Gio Reyna and Joe Scally as key contenders for the final roster ahead of the tournament hosted in North America. This development comes after recent assessments by the team’s technical staff, signaling their return to competitive form and fitness.
Gio Reyna, a dynamic midfielder, and Joe Scally, a versatile defender/wingback, had previously faced uncertainty regarding their inclusion. Their reemergence bolsters USMNT’s tactical options as coach Lionel Pochettino prepares to finalize the expanded 26-man squad.
Roster Competition and Formation
The USMNT’s roster remains highly competitive across all positions. Pochettino favors a 4-3-3 formation, with midfield starters including Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie. Reyna is positioned to challenge for either a starting spot or a valuable reserve role within this midfield framework. Meanwhile, on defense and wingback duties, Scally joins players such as Chris Richards and Tim Ream in a battle for key defensive roles, enhancing depth and tactical flexibility.
Forward Line and Roster Contenders
The forward selection includes Folarin Balogun, Ricardo Pepi, and Josh Sargent as primary candidates. Patrick Agyemang appears as a potential alternative should Pochettino choose a tactical variation employing four forwards. Additionally, players like Sebastian Berhalter and Brenden Aaronson hover on the roster bubble, reflecting the intense competition for World Cup places as noted by football analysts and former US internationals.
Context and Significance
The 2026 World Cup, hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, represents a milestone event for American soccer. The Big Board 3.0 update encapsulates ongoing player evaluations as the team evolves in its preparation. The reintegration of Reyna and Scally highlights the depth of options available to the coaching staff and underscores the strategic adjustments being made to ensure competitive readiness.
As the USMNT approaches a crucial phase in finalizing its squad, the latest roster developments will be closely monitored by stakeholders both inside and outside the soccer community, emphasizing the importance of optimal team composition ahead of the landmark home tournament.