The USMNT is in a funk. Christian Pulisic is on the longest scoring drought of his career, and they are on a 2-game losing streak with a combined 7-2 scoreline. The World Cup is just over a month away, and the roster selection is racing towards us with less than 30 days to go. With things on the wing unsettled, USMNT fans would hope the goalkeeping spot would be locked down.
That is not the case.
Head coach Mauricio Pochettino split the last game between Matt Turner and Matt Freese. Neither covered themselves in glory, but both are locks to make the final roster. Who else can make a late charge for the third keeper spot? Let's break it down.
Chris Brady leads the best of the rest
Chris Brady is maybe the goalkeeper of the future for the USMNT. He is as steady as Turner and Freese, but just doesn't have the international experience to start in a home World Cup. But because he was on the last roster, and has been playing well for MLS's Chicago Fire, he is in pole position to make the World Cup roster.
Why even bring a third keeper, and not focus on a different position? Because FIFA requires all countries to bring a minimum of 3 goalkeepers to the World Cup.
After Brady, things get a little muddy. Roman Celentano joined Brady, Freese, and Turner on the March roster, but like Brady, he did not play. He is a steady hand, but has yet to show the elite anticipation that top international keepers show night in and night out. And it's not like he is super young either, he is already 25. A keeper can play much longer, but younger options are nipping at his heels.
Another interesting option is Ethan Horvath. He came in cold in the 2021 Gold Cup Final against Mexico and made a penalty save. Having that kind of experience as the third option may be enticing.
Gabriel Slonina and the youth movement
Gabriel Slonina had all the hype, but after making a move to Europe has been a part of Chelsea's loan army. He played 34 games for Belgium's Eupen, and then went to Barnsley in League One, where he had 14 appearances. He rejoined Chelsea but has yet to see the field. Now turning 21, it is time for him to find a nice spot where he can get experience.
Unlike outfield players, goalkeepers require consistent, everyday minutes to truly hone their skills. Look for Slonina to make a move over the summer.
Joining Slonina, Brondby's Gavin Beavers, Brentford's Julian Eyestone, and Philadelphia Union's Andrew Rick are the next group of youngsters looking to make a claim for the throne. But for now, all eyes point to the roster selection in 2026.
World Cup 2026 Goalkeeper roster predictions
Locks: Matt Turner, Matt Freese
Fighting for the 3rd spot: Chris Brady, Roman Celentano, Ethan Horvath, Drake Callender
On the outside looking in: Zack Steffen, Jonathan Klinsmann
Next man up: CJ dos Santos, Gabriel Slonina, Gavin Beavers, Julian Eyestone, Andrew Rick, Diego Kochen
The roster will be announced live from New York City, May 26th at 3 PM on Fox.
Add us as a preferred source on Google