The Johnny Cardoso replacement question has become one of the biggest USMNT squad topics before the 2026 World Cup.
Johnny Cardoso looked like a strong midfield option for Mauricio Pochettino. However, Reuters reported that he will likely miss the World Cup because a right high-ankle sprain needs surgery. As a result, the USMNT must now think carefully about midfield depth before the final roster reveal.
This does not only hurt one player’s chances. It also changes the final 26-man squad conversation.
Best Johnny Cardoso Replacement Options for the USMNT
Cardoso did not have a guaranteed starting place. Still, he gave the USA a useful midfield profile.
He could sit deeper, help protect the defense, and give Pochettino another option behind Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie, Yunus Musah, and Tanner Tessmann. More importantly, tournament football needs depth.
One injury can change a lineup.
However, one midfield injury before a World Cup can also change the whole squad balance.
U.S. Soccer has already confirmed that Pochettino will reveal the 26-player USMNT World Cup roster on May 26, live from New York City on FOX. Therefore, he does not have much time to wait and hope.
1. Tanner Tessmann
Tanner Tessmann may become one of the biggest winners from Cardoso’s injury.
He already fits the deeper midfield conversation, and he offers size, passing range, and a calm style on the ball. However, reports also mention that Tessmann has dealt with a muscle strain, so his fitness still matters.
If Tessmann proves fit, Pochettino may trust him as part of the midfield group. Also, his profile makes sense if the USMNT wants another player who can help control the center.
Why he could replace Cardoso:
He gives the squad another central midfield option with defensive and passing qualities.
2. Weston McKennie in a Deeper Role
Weston McKennie may not be a direct Johnny Cardoso replacement, but he could help cover the gap.
McKennie usually brings energy, box-to-box running, aerial strength, and experience. However, if the USMNT loses a deeper midfielder, Pochettino could ask McKennie to play with more discipline in certain matches.
This would not be his most natural role. Still, tournament football often forces managers to adjust.
Why he could replace Cardoso:
He gives experience, physicality, and flexibility if Pochettino wants fewer specialist midfielders.
3. Yunus Musah
Yunus Musah also becomes more important after Cardoso’s injury.
Musah gives the USA ball-carrying ability, energy, and pressure resistance. He can move the ball through midfield when opponents press high. However, he is not the same type of holding midfielder as Cardoso.
Because of that, Musah may not replace Cardoso directly. Instead, he could become part of a reshaped midfield setup.
Why he could replace Cardoso:
He adds mobility and ball progression, especially if Pochettino changes the midfield balance.
4. Cristian Roldan
Cristian Roldan could enter the conversation because he brings experience and tactical reliability.
The New York Post mentioned Roldan as one fringe player who could benefit from Cardoso’s absence. That makes sense because coaches often value players who understand different roles and do not need much adjustment time.
However, Roldan’s case depends on what Pochettino wants. If he wants a safer squad player, Roldan could help. If he wants more upside, another name may move ahead.
Why he could replace Cardoso:
He offers experience, work rate, and squad flexibility.
5. Sebastian Berhalter
Sebastian Berhalter is another name to watch.
He may not be the flashiest option, but he fits the “midfield depth” discussion. Also, the New York Post listed him as a possible player whose chances could improve after Cardoso’s injury.
Berhalter’s advantage is simple: he can help fill a squad role if Pochettino wants another midfielder who can work hard, stay organized, and support the team structure.
Why he could replace Cardoso:
He gives Pochettino another central midfield option if injuries force a deeper squad pick.
Could Pochettino Avoid a Direct Cardoso Replacement?
Yes, and this may be the most realistic option.
Instead of choosing one clear Johnny Cardoso replacement, Pochettino could change the squad shape. For example, he could take one fewer defensive midfielder and add a flexible attacker or defender.
However, that decision carries risk. If Tyler Adams or another midfielder has fitness issues during the tournament, the squad could look thin.
Therefore, the safer move may be to keep enough midfield cover in the final 26.
Check our guide to young USA soccer players before World Cup 2026
Final Thoughts on Johnny Cardoso Replacement Options
The Johnny Cardoso replacement debate matters because the USMNT needs balance, depth, and fitness before the World Cup.
Tanner Tessmann looks like the closest squad-style option if he proves fit. Meanwhile, Weston McKennie and Yunus Musah could help reshape the midfield. Also, Cristian Roldan and Sebastian Berhalter may benefit if Pochettino wants reliable depth.
Overall, Pochettino does not need to replace Cardoso with one identical player. However, he does need a clear midfield plan before May 26.
FAQs
Who is the best Johnny Cardoso replacement?
Tanner Tessmann may be the closest option if he is fit. However, Pochettino could also adjust with Weston McKennie, Yunus Musah, or another depth midfielder.
What happened to Johnny Cardoso?
Reuters reported that Johnny Cardoso will likely miss the World Cup because his right high-ankle sprain needs surgery.
When will the USMNT roster be announced?
U.S. Soccer confirmed that Mauricio Pochettino will reveal the 26-player USMNT roster on May 26, 2026.
Could the USMNT avoid replacing Cardoso directly?
Yes. Pochettino could change the squad balance instead of picking one direct replacement.
