SouthernWorldwide.com – Creating an ultimate World Cup starting lineup for the U.S. men’s national team is a task that sparks considerable debate among fans and analysts alike. The selection process involves weighing the contributions and impact of numerous talented players who have represented the nation on the global stage.
On the latest episode of the “Alexi Lalas’ State of the Union” podcast, soccer analyst Alexi Lalas shared his picks for this prestigious all-time lineup. His choices, as he explained, involved making some difficult decisions, notably omitting prominent figures such as Clint Dempsey, Tim Howard, and DaMarcus Beasley from his starting eleven.
Let’s delve into Lalas’s selections for each position:
Goalkeeper: Tony MeolaWorld Cup appearances: 1990, 1994
Lalas explained his rationale for choosing Tony Meola, acknowledging that it might be a point of contention for some. He highlighted Meola’s exceptional ability with his feet, a trait particularly valuable in the modern game. Lalas described Meola as being ahead of his time in this regard, providing a sense of security and demonstrating remarkable accuracy and confidence when distributing the ball. He narrowly favored Meola over Tim Howard for this crucial role.
Right back: Tony SannehWorld Cup appearances: 2002
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Recalling the 2002 World Cup, Lalas lauded Tony Sanneh’s performance at right back. He described Sanneh as embodying all the qualities desired in a modern fullback, with his relentless energy up and down the flank, his attacking threat, and his defensive contributions.
Center backs: Eddie Pope, Carlos BocanegraWorld Cup appearances: Pope – 1998, 2002; Bocanegra – 2006, 2010
Lalas selected Eddie Pope and Carlos Bocanegra as his central defensive pairing. He praised Pope as a legendary player, dominant both in the air and on the ground, and noted his intelligence on the field. Bocanegra, as a long-serving captain, brought leadership and experience, creating a balanced partnership with Pope.
Left back: Antonee “Jedi” RobinsonWorld Cup appearances: 2022, 2026 (expected)
For the left back position, Lalas confidently selected Antonee “Jedi” Robinson. He believes Robinson is on track to be considered the best left back in the history of the U.S. men’s national team, already solidifying his place on that side.
Defensive Midfielders: Michael Bradley, Weston McKennieWorld Cup appearances: Bradley – 2010, 2014; McKennie – 2022, 2026 (expected)
In front of the defense, Lalas opted for a midfield duo of Michael Bradley and Weston McKennie. He sees them as providing a solid foundation while also possessing the ability to contribute to the attack. Bradley is recognized as a living legend for the U.S. team, offering predictability and stability. McKennie’s importance to the national team, both for his on-field performance and his impactful personality, earns him a spot alongside Bradley.
Forwards: Tab Ramos, Landon Donovan, Christian PulisicWorld Cup appearances: Ramos – 1990, 1994, 1998; Donovan – 2002, 2006, 2010; Pulisic – 2022, 2026 (expected)
The attacking trio selected by Lalas comprises Tab Ramos, Landon Donovan, and Christian Pulisic. He emphasized that these three players are entirely interchangeable, having all demonstrated versatility by playing multiple attacking positions and appearing in various areas of the field during their careers. Lalas spoke highly of Tab Ramos, considering him the most technically and mentally gifted player he ever played with on the U.S. team, suggesting Ramos was far ahead of his peers.
Landon Donovan is described as a player who could operate effectively underneath the forwards or out wide, causing significant damage. Christian Pulisic, while often starting on the left wing, is also capable of drifting inside and playing in different attacking roles, offering tactical flexibility to this formidable front three.
Striker: Brian McBrideWorld Cup appearances: 2002, 2006
To lead the line, Lalas chose Brian McBride. He expressed a strong desire for a player like McBride in the current setup, making a point of respect towards current strikers Folarin Balogun and Ricardo Pepi. McBride’s presence as a proven goalscorer and a focal point for the attack is what Lalas values for this all-time lineup.
