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USMNT predicted lineup vs. Paraguay: Can Chris Richards make the starting cut and will Sergino Dest embrace a new position?

Sergino Dest’s possible shift in role, Chris Richards’ fitness, and a few late selection dilemmas leave Mauricio Pochettino with major calls to make as GOAL outlines how the USMNT could line up for the World Cup.

Speaking to the media at the beginning of the training camp, USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino was asked whether he had finalised his starting eleven for the World Cup opener. His response was that he mostly had. When did he determine it? Back in March, he said, though he added that there was still scope for minor adjustments. Overall, however, he was confident about what his side would look like when they take on Paraguay.

Since then, Pochettino has kept his cards close to his chest. A few positions remain uncertain, with injuries and last-minute form battles influencing key decisions right up to the start of the tournament.

With that in mind, GOAL assesses how Pochettino’s USMNT could line up on Friday as they kick off their World Cup campaign...

Goalkeeper: Matt Freese

Pochettino has maintained an open contest for this spot, so Matt Turner starting would not be a total shock. However, considering the time and effort invested in preparing Freese for this role, it would be somewhat unexpected if he were not chosen.

Since last summer, Freese has featured in all but two matches, with Turner playing three halves in those. To his credit, Freese has done nothing to lose his place across these appearances. His confidence has grown steadily, and although his limited international experience is a valid concern, all indications suggest he is ready to handle the starting goalkeeper duties this summer.

Left-back: Antonee Robinson

The USMNT will hope that Robinson’s stellar performance in the Germany friendly wasn’t just a one-off.

His goal in the send-off match was outstanding — a moment that reminded everyone of his attacking quality. Over the past few years, injuries and resulting dips in form have held him back. But in recent months, and especially in that Germany clash, Robinson looked like he was rediscovering his peak form.

If the 2024 version of Robinson shows up this summer, the USMNT’s ceiling could rise significantly.

Centre-back: Tim Ream

For those who still doubt him, a rewatch of the Germany game is worth the time. Count the instances when Ream received the ball under intense pressure and calmly helped the U.S. play their way out of trouble — that’s his true value.

Ream brings composure and reliability in possession, traits that make him a vital safety valve for the team. While his lack of pace might become an issue at times, his ability to manage the game and steady the defence outweighs that risk.

Centre-back: Chris Richards

This remains the biggest question mark. Richards insists he is ready, and if that’s the case, it would be a massive lift for the team.

Pochettino must decide whether Richards is simply fit enough to play or fully ready to perform at his usual high level. If it’s the latter, he’s an automatic starter. If not, Pochettino will need to weigh his physical readiness against other available options.

The top priority is ensuring Richards returns to full match fitness quickly. If that happens by Friday, the U.S. defence will be considerably stronger.

Right-back: Alex Freeman

Whether he’s deployed as a right-back or as part of a back three doesn’t matter much — what’s crucial is Freeman’s inclusion and the flexibility he offers.

While still somewhat raw, Freeman’s physical traits help him overcome tough situations. He performed well in this role against both Senegal and Germany, proving that he can handle defensive duties against elite opposition. That should give him enough trust to start again.

Central Midfield: Tyler Adams

There are some minor concerns about Adams’ recent form. He hasn’t quite looked like his best self in the last two matches, but the USMNT will need him at his peak during the World Cup.

Considering his fitness struggles toward the end of the Premier League season, this dip is understandable. The extended recovery time between group-stage games should help him regain sharpness. Adams remains the emotional and tactical heartbeat of this side.

Central Midfield: Weston McKennie

McKennie’s role could vary — will he have license to roam and disrupt, or will he stay deeper alongside Adams?

Either way, McKennie is certain to start, and his form this year suggests he could be a decisive factor in the match.

Central Midfield: Malik Tillman

Tillman’s role is another tactical consideration. His performance against Germany in a deeper midfield position — where he dictated tempo and pressed relentlessly — was outstanding.

That display proved his worth in this lineup. The key for Pochettino will be maintaining balance, but Tillman has shown he’s capable of doing just that.

Left Wing: Christian Pulisic

This one’s obvious. Pulisic will start, and he’s back in strong form. If he performs like he did against Senegal, Paraguay’s defence will have a long and difficult night.

Striker: Folarin Balogun

It’s a tough break for Ricardo Pepi, who has done enough to merit a start — just not ahead of Balogun, given his current form.

The Monaco forward has been in excellent touch. Even when not scoring, his movement and presence help unlock the USMNT’s attack. Pepi and Haji Wright remain excellent impact options off the bench, but this is Balogun’s chance to lead the line.

Right Wing: Sergino Dest

There’s room for debate over Dest’s exact position, but the key is that he has attacking freedom — and a free-flowing Dest is a joy to watch.

Playing higher up the pitch with Freeman covering behind him, the PSV full-back is given license to attack and create. His one-on-one ability is invaluable, and the more he dribbles and engages defenders, the stronger he becomes over the course of the game. By pushing Dest forward, Pochettino reduces the creative burden on others, which explains why this setup has been so effective.