Americans abroad weekly recap as Pulisic, Robinson and McKennie chase form and fitness before the 2026 World Cup squad decision
With just four months until the 2026 FIFA World Cup on home soil, every weekend carries added weight for the US men’s national team player pool. Squad places are far from settled, and consistent minutes, or decisive moments, could shape Mauricio Pochettino’s thinking.
Several Americans featured prominently across Europe over the past week, whether in domestic league action or cup competition. For some, it was about maintaining form; for others, it was about fighting back into contention.
Here’s how key USMNT names performed abroad as the push for World Cup roster spots intensifies.
Brenden Aaronson (Leeds United): Penalty delight
Tom Brady’s Birmingham City pushed Aaronson’s Leeds United all the way in the FA Cup fourth round, forcing extra-time after a late equaliser made it 1-1.
Aaronson stepped up in the shootout and converted ruthlessly to the goalkeeper’s right, helping Leeds book their place in the fifth round.
In high-pressure moments like that, the midfielder continues to show composure that could prove valuable this summer.
Christian Pulisic (AC Milan): Benched again, but made an impact
Pulisic’s difficult spell at AC Milan continued as he was again named among the substitutes against Pisa.
The 27-year-old has not started since facing Lecce on January 18, but he did contribute to the comeback after entering with 13 minutes remaining. Luka Modrić scored the winner as Milan solidified second place and kept pressure on Inter.
While not first choice at present, Pulisic remains capable of influencing matches late on.
Weston McKennie (Juventus): Two assists in heated derby defeat
McKennie continued his superb form, registering two assists for Kenan Yildiz in a controversial 3-2 defeat to Inter at San Siro.
Juventus were furious when Pierre Kalulu was shown a second yellow card for an apparent shirt pull on Alessandro Bastoni — replays showed minimal contact.
The USMNT stalwart’s performances come amid contract negotiations, with his current deal set to expire in two months.
Antonee Robinson (Fulham): A rare full 90 minutes
Encouraging news for Robinson, who played his first full 90 minutes since January 4 in Fulham’s 2-1 FA Cup win at Stoke City.
The left-back looked sharp and energetic throughout, handling defensive duties well while still pushing forward.
Regaining full-match fitness could be crucial ahead of a demanding end to the season.
Folarin Balogun (Monaco): Back to winning ways
Balogun started Monaco’s 3-1 home win over Nantes and led the line effectively despite not scoring.
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After Aleksandr Golovin’s red card on 65 minutes, Balogun was withdrawn as Monaco shifted to a more defensive setup.
The victory marked their first win in February and keeps momentum on their side domestically.
Tim Weah (Marseille): 2-2 draw in new role
Weah continues operating at right full-back for Marseille during a turbulent spell for the club.
They are without a win in their last three Ligue 1 matches, including a heavy 5-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain that ended Roberto De Zerbi’s tenure.
Weah’s versatility could enhance his value to the national team setup.
Ricardo Pepi (PSV): Out of action
Pepi remains sidelined with the forearm fracture he suffered last month.
PSV slipped to a surprise 2-1 defeat to FC Volendam but still sit 14 points clear at the top of the Eredivisie.
His recovery progress will be closely monitored as the World Cup approaches.
Noahkai Banks (Augsburg): From strength to strength
The 19-year-old centre-back delivered another full 90 minutes and a clean sheet in a 1-0 win.
Augsburg climbed to 11th, moving eight points clear of the relegation zone in a significant result.
His rapid rise has even prompted calls from USMNT legend Landon Donovan to start at the World Cup.
Chris Richards (Crystal Palace): Cup exit meant no action
With Palace already eliminated from the FA Cup, Richards had the weekend off competitively.
They return to action Thursday in the Europa Conference League with a trip to Bosnia to face HŠK Zrinjski Mostar.
Maintaining sharpness in European fixtures will be important ahead of the international window.
Yunus Musah (Atalanta): Struggle for game-time continues
Musah was an unused substitute in Atalanta’s 2-0 win at Lazio.
He has started just three matches all season, with his last full 90 minutes coming on December 21.
Increased minutes will be essential if he is to strengthen his World Cup credentials.