Verdict

Here’s my Feb 2026 projection for the USMNT “forward/No.9” slots (the guys you actually expect to score), assuming Pochettino carries 4–5 of them.

If it’s 4 forwards (most likely “clean” roster build)
• Folarin Balogun (Monaco) – lock. He’s still the incumbent and the staff rate his all-around game even through a patchy club run.
• Ricardo Pepi (PSV) – lock if fit. The only real red flag is availability (forearm injury + durability narrative).
• Haji Wright (Coventry City) – best “floor” pick: proven with USMNT, has a World Cup goal, and still very much in the top cluster.
• Patrick Agyemang (Derby County) – the “form + physical profile” slot. If Poch wants a different type (pressing monster / direct), he’s the one forcing the conversation.

If it’s 5 forwards (extra insurance / different look off the bench)

My pick: Brian White (Vancouver Whitecaps) – because he gives you a very specific Plan B (line-leading, hold-up, chaos in the box) that changes match texture late.

Who I think misses (unless something changes fast)
• Josh Sargent – club situation + he’s been out of the US scoring loop for a long time; he needs a hot run immediately to flip the “football decision” narrative.
• Damion Downs – upside prospect, but currently reads more like “next cycle depth” than 2026 impact.

Net: Balogun + Pepi are the core, and then it’s Wright vs Agyemang as the big lever (if you take 4, you probably want both; if you take 3, one gets cut).

Posted By: footymadman on February 15th 2026 at 18:14:31

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