Top 50 USMNT players of 2026, ranked by club form: USMNT Player Performance Index returns - ESPN

ESPN

by Ryan O'Hanlon

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The USMNT Player Performance Index (PPI) has been updated for 2026, offering a fresh look at the top American players based on talent, playing time, and team quality. This year's ranking places less emphasis on Transfermarkt market value (4%) and more on team performance (78%), reflecting a shift toward valuing current form over potential. The rankings aim to identify which players are most likely to contribute at the World Cup, considering both individual impact and club strength. The PPI formula highlights the importance of consistency and quality in domestic leagues. Players from top-tier clubs with high team ratings often fare better, even if their market value is lower. This approach ensures that contributors to successful teams receive recognition, aligning their performance with potential international success. MLS players are evaluated based on last season's statistics due to delayed data availability. The rankings reveal a competitive landscape, with several key names missing due to injury or underperformance. Patrick Agyemang and Cameron Carter-Vickers, for example, have been impacted by injuries and inconsistent club form. Meanwhile, the focus is now on players like those from Club América and Celtic, who face challenges in maintaining their status. This index matters because it provides clarity amid uncertainty about the World Cup roster. With only a few months until the tournament, fans and analysts are eager to assess which players are in peak condition. The PPI offers insights into not just individual talent but also how club success influences international prospects. For readers interested in sports analytics and soccer performance metrics, this ranking serves as a valuable tool for tracking player form and predicting team dynamics. The return of the USMNT Player Performance Index underscores the growing importance of data-driven analysis in modern football. As the World Cup approaches, fans will be closely monitoring these rankings to gauge which players are most likely to make an impact on the global stage. Whether it's identifying rising stars or evaluating established veterans, this index provides a comprehensive view of American talent across leagues worldwide.

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Originally published on ESPN on 2/20/2026