Will Tessmann leapfrog McKennie, Musah to start for USMNT at 2026 World Cup?

The article discusses the possibility of Tanner Tessmann, a young American midfielder, potentially leapfrogging his teammates Weston McKennie and Yunus Musah to secure a starting spot for the U.S. Men's National Team (USMNT) at the 2026 World Cup. Tessmann, who hasn't played for the USMNT since March, has been in impressive form for his club team, Lyon, during the 2025-26 season. His performances have been so outstanding that Mauricio Pochettino, Lyon's manager, can no longer ignore him. The article suggests that Tessmann's remarkable performances at the club level could lead to him surpassing established USMNT players like McKennie and Musah in the national team's midfield hierarchy. This would be a significant achievement for the young American, who could secure a starting role in the USMNT lineup for the 2026 World Cup. The article highlights the competitive nature of the USMNT's midfield position and the importance of consistent, high-level performances at the club level in earning a place in the national team's starting lineup.