We’re almost a month away from Mauricio Pochettino’s final squad announcement for the 2026 World Cup. And following Patrick Agyemang’s unfortunate injury last week, the pool of strikers in contention to make the team has narrowed.

This week, we take a look at the potential strikers that will be called up to represent the U.S. during this massive summer, plus a few predictions on how they may be utilized.

Under Mauricio Pochettino, the striker role isn’t just about finishing and sharpness in front of goal but also about pressing, movement, and linking play. With this system that demands versatility as much as goals, there are several candidates peaking (and others fading), here’s how the depth chart is shaping up.

Folarin Balogun — The Likely Starter

Balogun remains the closest thing the U.S. has to a first-choice No. 9. His biggest strength is his movement — constantly stretching backlines and finding pockets between defenders. He’s also the most natural finisher in the pool when in rhythm.

For Pochettino, Balogun fits the prototype: a mobile striker who can press from the front and combine with wide attackers like Pulisic. While his club form has been uneven at times, he still profiles as the starter if healthy and in decent form.

Role: Starting No. 9

Fit: High press, off-ball movement, vertical threat

Ricardo Pepi — The Challenger

Pepi might be the most instinctive goal-scorer in the pool. His positioning in the box is elite, and he’s proven he doesn’t need many touches to make an impact.

The concern is availability. Injuries have disrupted his rhythm, but when fit, he offers something slightly different than Balogun — more of a poacher who thrives on service.

Role: Second-choice, pushing for starts

Fit: Penalty-box striker, clinical finisher

Patrick Agyemang — The FALLEN Wild Card

No player had risen faster in this cycle than Agyemang. Physically dominant and relentless in his pressing, he would’ve given the U.S. a direct option they’ve often lacked. He will be missed this summer, as he was shaping up to be the perfect X factor that teams often need in tournaments like the World Cup.

Role: Not Available (Injury)

Fit: Not Available (Injury)

Haji Wright — The Versatile Option

Wright brings flexibility. He can play centrally or drift wide, and his physicality allows him to hold up play effectively.

He may not be the most clinical finisher, but his ability to stretch defenses and operate in multiple roles makes him valuable in a tournament setting, especially off the bench. Having played at the 2022 World Cup also gives him the added benefit of experience in this type of setting.

Role: Rotational forward

Fit: Hybrid winger/striker, hold-up play

Josh Sargent — The System Fit (on the edge)

Sargent’s biggest asset is his work rate. He presses well, links play, and fits a Pochettino-style system on paper.

But form and club inconsistency have hurt his chances. He may be on the outside looking in unless he finds momentum quickly. Although following Agyemang’s injury, he’s moved up in the depth chart.

Role: Fringe roster option

Fit: Pressing forward, connective play

Final Depth Chart Projection

Balogun — clear favorite to start

Pepi — primary backup, situational starter

Agyemang — injured and set to miss the tournament.

Wright — tactical flexibility piece

Sargent — in the bubble

If there’s a takeaway, it’s this: the U.S. has a few options, but not full certainty on any one. Come the World Cup, Pochettino will likely rotate depending on the game. Hopefully, those who are called up, respond when the moment comes.