The World Cup is rapidly approaching, and now is the time for the USMNT to rise. Playing on their home turf, Team USA is reaching now-or-never territory to make some noise after decades of disappointment. With that in mind, let’s get to know some of the big stars on the USMNT.

Of course, we have to start with Christian Pulisic. Captain America is having another strong season for AC Milan, pitching in eight goals and three assists. He’s second in the entire Serie A in combined expected goals and expected assists, underscoring his talent for creating chances. Pulisic contributed to three goals during the 2022 World Cup run, helping the USMNT advance out of the group stage and into the Round of 16, where they lost to the Netherlands. But expectations are higher this time around, and Pulisic will have to be the man to step up.

Weston McKennie, another Serie A man, is right up there in terms of talent with Pulisic. Though he gets less glamour than the winger Pulisic, there’s no shame in being an elite central midfielder. He’s a true box-to-box midfielder, as likely to get a touch in his own box as he is the opposition’s box. Under new USMNT manager Mauricio Pochettino, McKennie’s touch map looks like a Jackson Pollock painting. He sure knows how to use a man of McKennie’s talents.

One of his fellow midfielders, Tyler Adams, also makes a strong case for the best American player. The Bournemouth defensive midfielder, unlike Steely Dan, loves to do your dirty work. Tackles, clearances, markings left and right. With the age and quality concerns for the USMNT center backs, having a stellar defensive midfielder in front of them makes a world of difference.

Speaking of that defense, Antonee Robinson is a bona fide stud from the left back spot. A world-class athlete, he contributes all over the pitch and loves to jumpstart the attack. It remains to be seen how he will be used in this World Cup; Pochettino has flirted with a three-man back line, which would miscast him somewhat, unless he moves to a more left-wing-back role. Either way, he will find a way to contribute.

The fun part about this star core? All four of these players are 27 or 28 years old. Now is the best time for them to put it together and make a run in the 2026 World Cup. Question is: can they finally do it?