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Source: Fox Sports
Summary
The USA has released its 26-man roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, featuring Sebastian Berhalter, who will join his father Gregg Berhalter as the second father-son duo to play for the USA at a World Cup. Berhalter was included in the roster after Gregg’s firing as USMNT coach in 2024, which opened the door for his son to make the team. Eight current MLS players made the roster, while 13 additional players previously came through MLS academies or spent time developing in the league. The 2026 FIFA World Cup will run from June 11–July 19, 2026.
Our Reading
The game followed a familiar script.
Sebastian Berhalter’s inclusion was no surprise, given his father’s firing as coach in 2024. It’s a story of “like father, like son” come true.
MLS bias is often cited as a reason for criticism surrounding Berhalter’s inclusion, with some arguing that he wouldn’t have made the team if his father was still coach.
Alexi Lalas said that Gregg’s firing was a pivotal moment in Sebastian’s path to the World Cup roster, adding that it’s a “tradeoff” that Gregg would be okay with.
FOX Sports soccer analyst Stu Holden believes Berhalter would have made the team regardless due to his level of play, saying he would feel comfortable starting him in a World Cup match.
This one felt recognizable early, with the inclusion of Berhalter and other MLS players sparking familiar debates about league representation and bias.
Original Observation: As the final roster spot is often the most scrutinized, it’s no surprise that the USA’s World Cup roster is met with a mix of excitement and skepticism, much like the reaction to the team’s previous roster cuts.
