Joe Scally, a 23‑year‑old right back from Lake Grove, New York, has been selected for the United States men’s national team’s 26‑player roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The announcement marks a milestone in a career that began on the fields of Long Island and has since progressed to the Bundesliga.
Early Club Success
Scally currently plies his trade for Borussia Monchengladbach, where he has started 31 of 35 league appearances this season. His defensive reliability and attacking forays have made him a regular fixture in a side competing at the highest level of German football.
International Footprint
Four years earlier, Scally had already made history by becoming the youngest player on the USMNT’s 2022 World Cup roster at just 19 years old. That experience laid the groundwork for his continued development on the international stage.
Friendlies and Preparation
In the build‑up to the World Cup, the United States will play two preparatory matches: a contest against Senegal in Charlotte on May 31 and a showdown with Germany in Chicago on June 6. Scally featured in both friendlies, logging a total of 45 minutes as he sharpens his match fitness.
World Cup Opener
The American squad’s first World Cup match is scheduled for June 12 in Los Angeles against Paraguay. The game will serve as the opening test for a roster that blends seasoned veterans with the fresh legs of players like Scally, who brings a blend of youthful vigor and top‑flight experience.
Depth Across the Backline
The 2026 World Cup roster is composed of a diverse mix of defenders, goalkeepers, midfielders, wingers and strikers. Alongside Scally, the backline includes established names such as Sergino Dest, Mark McKenzie, Tim Ream, Chris Richards, Antonee Robinson, Miles Robinson, Auston Trusty and others, each bringing a distinct set of skills to the defensive unit.
Midfield options feature talents like Brenden Aaronson, Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie and Christian Pulisic, while attacking prowess will be bolstered by Gio Reyna, Malik Tillman, Tim Weah, Alejandro Zendejas, Folarin Balogun, Ricardo Pepi and Haji Wright. The breadth of experience across the squad underscores the United States’ ambition to compete strongly on the world stage.