These USMNT players have likely played in their last World Cup

Another World Cup has come to an end for the United States, and with it, the international careers of some veteran players may also be winding down. Among them is center back Tim Ream, the USMNT captain during Mauricio Pochettino’s tenure.

At 38 years old, it seems unlikely that the former Fulham defender will be part of another World Cup cycle. However, the vast majority of the squad that competed in 2026 should still be in or near its prime by the time the next tournament arrives.

Another player who may not be around in 2030 is goalkeeper Matt Turner, who is now 32. Midfielder Cristian Roldan, 31, also appears to have played in what could be his final World Cup.

Roldan was one of the few players on the roster who did not see any playing time during the tournament, largely because of injury. It seems difficult to imagine him returning at age 35, especially with fierce competition in midfield from players such as Johnny Cardoso, Yunus Musah, and others.

The next generation of the USMNT

From the current squad, 23 players could still be part of the next World Cup cycle. But several younger prospects are also pushing to be on the roster in 2030.

Among them are 19-year-old Noahkai Banks, who plays in Germany; Johnny Cardoso, who missed the tournament through injury; 17-year-old Borussia Dortmund prospect Mathis Albert; and teenage sensation Cavan Sullivan, who, at just 16 years old, has already signed for Manchester City.

The future looks bright for the United States ahead of the 2030 World Cup. Perhaps the phrase “Why not us?” will become a thing of the past, and perhaps Mauricio Pochettino will no longer be in charge. But hope remains, and 2030 could represent one final opportunity for what many have called the USMNT’s “golden generation.”

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