SOCCER

USMNT’s Johnson: “Exciting times ahead” as World Cup 2026 cycle begins

Speaking after Saturday’s draw with Colombia, goalkeeper Sean Johnson said the depth of talent at the USMNT’s disposal augurs well for the 2026 World Cup.

Goalkeeper Sean Johnson says there are “exciting times ahead” for the United States men’s national team, after the Stars and Stripes completed their January training camp with a 0-0 friendly draw with Colombia on Saturday.

“January camp is where I got my start in the national team,” Johnson told AS after winning his 10th cap for the USMNT at Dignity Health Sports Park. “There are a lot of new faces, a lot of young guys, and they have the same opportunity ahead of them.

Johnson lauds USMNT “depth”

This is a cycle where it’s just starting out and everything’s geared towards [the] 2026 [World Cup, which is to be held in the US, Canada and Mexico]. It’s always an honour to represent your country - to get a game in the January camp is special for a lot of these guys, and it’s always special for me.”

The 33-year-old added: “There’s a great group of players and that speaks to the depth of our player pool. There are exciting times ahead.”

Johnson “buzzing” after swapping NYCFC for Toronto

Johnson, who this week left New York City FC for fellow MLS franchise Toronto FC, said of his move to Canada: “I’m buzzing to join Toronto. It’s a really important decision for me, to be somewhere where I can enjoy my football. Ultimately, they’ve shown that they wanted me there and I want to be there as well, so there’s some good pieces in place and I’m looking forward to big things.”