GOAL’s PICKS: Max Arfsten, Sergino Dest, Alex Freeman, Mark McKenzie, Tim Ream, Chris Richards, Antonee Robinson, Miles Robinson, Joe Scally
In the mix: Noahkai Banks, Cameron Carter-Vickers, John Tolkin, Auston Trusty, Walker Zimmerman
There’s a lot to unpack here, largely because these positions are all very fluid. We’ve seen traditional four-at-the-back systems. We’ve seen five-at-the-back systems. We’ve seen fullbacks as centerbacks. Versatility will be key here. So, too, will fitness.
On that fitness note, we’ll start on the left, where Antonee Robinson is this team’s biggest question mark. If he’s fit, he’s fantastic, but he hasn’t been fit at all this year. Is there a reason to be concerned for next summer? Possibly, but the good news is that there are capable understudies. Arfsten has grown by leaps and bounds. Dest can switch over, too, and someone like Tim Weah can play that spot if needed. With or without Robinson, the USMNT should be fine, which would feel crazy to say a year ago.
The right side, meanwhile, feels pretty secure. Dest is Dest – no concerns there. And Freeman has blossomed into a two-way contributor, highlighted by his goals against Uruguay. He also has the physical tools to compete at the highest level, so there’s not much worry on that front either.
As for center back, there’s still some shaking out to do after Richards. Ream seems safe, as does McKenzie following his captain recognition against Uruguay. That leaves the rest of the group fighting spots, with that group including Scally, who remains the wild card on this backline.