Mumbai Cricket Association announces player contract system ahead of 2026-2027 season The Mumbai Cricket Association has formalised its long-mooted player contract system, outlining the structure and framework of what it hopes will be a cornerstone in strengthening its domestic ecosystem.The decision, approved in principle by the MCA Apex Council on January 15, now has its details in place. The contracts will be awarded based on performance, fitness benchmarks and recommendations of the selection committee, with an eye on players on the cusp of higher honours.Under the new system, players will be slotted into three grades — Grade A (₹12-20 lakh), Grade B (₹8-12 lakh) and Grade C (₹8 lakh) annually — in addition to match fees, daily allowances and performance-linked incentives. The move is aimed at providing financial stability and a more structured professional environment, while also ensuring a steady pipeline to higher levels of cricket. The list of players will be drawn up closer to the season in consultation with the selection panel and the cricket improvement committee.MCA president Ajinkya Naik termed it a “new era” for Mumbai cricket, adding that the initiative would “provide greater security, structure, and growth opportunities” and help “strengthen the foundation” of the system.While the intent marks a progressive step, the MCA is not the first state association to introduce player contracts. Associations like Maharashtra, Punjab and Uttarakhand have experimented with similar models over the past two decades, though none has managed to sustain it over the long term.That context makes MCA’s implementation significant. For the past two domestic seasons, instead of central contracts, the association had opted to top up BCCI match fees for its senior men’s players with an equal contribution from its own coffers.The shift to a structured contract system signals a move towards long-term planning rather than ad-hoc support. Having taken the lead for the upcoming season, the MCA will hope the model not only endures but also safeguards and incentivises its senior men’s cricketers while nurturing the next generation.Published on Apr 16, 2026 #Mumbai #Cricket #Association #announces #player #contract #system #ahead #season

Mumbai Cricket Association announces player contract system ahead of 2026-2027 season
The Mumbai Cricket Association has formalised its long-mooted player contract system, outlining the structure and framework of what it hopes will be a cornerstone in strengthening its domestic ecosystem.
The decision, approved in principle by the MCA Apex Council on January 15, now has its details in place. The contracts will be awarded based on performance, fitness benchmarks and recommendations of the selection committee, with an eye on players on the cusp of higher honours.
Under the new system, players will be slotted into three grades — Grade A (₹12-20 lakh), Grade B (₹8-12 lakh) and Grade C (₹8 lakh) annually — in addition to match fees, daily allowances and performance-linked incentives. The move is aimed at providing financial stability and a more structured professional environment, while also ensuring a steady pipeline to higher levels of cricket. The list of players will be drawn up closer to the season in consultation with the selection panel and the cricket improvement committee.
MCA president Ajinkya Naik termed it a “new era” for Mumbai cricket, adding that the initiative would “provide greater security, structure, and growth opportunities” and help “strengthen the foundation” of the system.
While the intent marks a progressive step, the MCA is not the first state association to introduce player contracts. Associations like Maharashtra, Punjab and Uttarakhand have experimented with similar models over the past two decades, though none has managed to sustain it over the long term.
That context makes MCA’s implementation significant. For the past two domestic seasons, instead of central contracts, the association had opted to top up BCCI match fees for its senior men’s players with an equal contribution from its own coffers.
The shift to a structured contract system signals a move towards long-term planning rather than ad-hoc support. Having taken the lead for the upcoming season, the MCA will hope the model not only endures but also safeguards and incentivises its senior men’s cricketers while nurturing the next generation.
Published on Apr 16, 2026
#Mumbai #Cricket #Association #announces #player #contract #system #ahead #season

The Mumbai Cricket Association has formalised its long-mooted player contract system, outlining the structure and framework of what it hopes will be a cornerstone in strengthening its domestic ecosystem.

The decision, approved in principle by the MCA Apex Council on January 15, now has its details in place. The contracts will be awarded based on performance, fitness benchmarks and recommendations of the selection committee, with an eye on players on the cusp of higher honours.

Under the new system, players will be slotted into three grades — Grade A (₹12-20 lakh), Grade B (₹8-12 lakh) and Grade C (₹8 lakh) annually — in addition to match fees, daily allowances and performance-linked incentives. The move is aimed at providing financial stability and a more structured professional environment, while also ensuring a steady pipeline to higher levels of cricket. The list of players will be drawn up closer to the season in consultation with the selection panel and the cricket improvement committee.

MCA president Ajinkya Naik termed it a “new era” for Mumbai cricket, adding that the initiative would “provide greater security, structure, and growth opportunities” and help “strengthen the foundation” of the system.

While the intent marks a progressive step, the MCA is not the first state association to introduce player contracts. Associations like Maharashtra, Punjab and Uttarakhand have experimented with similar models over the past two decades, though none has managed to sustain it over the long term.

That context makes MCA’s implementation significant. For the past two domestic seasons, instead of central contracts, the association had opted to top up BCCI match fees for its senior men’s players with an equal contribution from its own coffers.

The shift to a structured contract system signals a move towards long-term planning rather than ad-hoc support. Having taken the lead for the upcoming season, the MCA will hope the model not only endures but also safeguards and incentivises its senior men’s cricketers while nurturing the next generation.

Published on Apr 16, 2026

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Tag ajinkya naik ajinkya naik mca mca contracts 2026-27 season mca contracts domestic season mca player contracts mca player contracts system Mumbai Cricket Association mumbai cricket association contracts

MI vs PBKS Live Score: 12 पर मुंबई को दो झटके, अर्शदीप ने रिकेल्टन-सूर्यकुमार को भेजा पवेलियन; डिकॉक क्रीज पर

Deadspin | Celine Borge, Polly Mack halfway to first LPGA wins at Dow Polly Mack of Berlin, Germany, tees off on the 2nd hole on Thursday, Feb. 6th during the first round of the LPGA 2025 Founders Cup at the Bradenton Country Club in Bradenton, Florida. Celine Borge of Norway and Polly Mack of Germany surged to the top of the leaderboard at the halfway point of the Dow Championship as they collaborated for a 10-under-par 60 score during the second round of the Dow Championship on Friday at Midland (Mich.) Country Club. Borge and Mack began the day a stroke back after a 2-under opening round. They took major advantage of the four-ball format — considered the easier of the two for the team event — for the second round, combining for a bogey-free showing to sit at 12-under 128 through two rounds. Japanese pair Ayaka Furue and Yuna Nishimura (61) are a stroke back at 11 under while world No. 1 Nelly Korda and her German teammate Olivia Cowan (60) are next at 10 under. The LPGA’s lone team event features 72 two-woman teams. They played foursomes (alternate shot) on Thursday and four-ball (best ball) on Friday. The 34 teams that made the 36-hole cut play foursomes on Saturday and four-ball on Sunday. Borge and Mack both did their part as they began the day on the back nine. They each tallied birdies on Nos. 12 and 17, Borge added one on the 10th hole and Mack did solo on the 14th. Mack carried the load on the front nine, though, notching an eagle at the par-5 third hole and three other birdies. Borge didn’t have any under-par holes on the front nine, but she contributed pars on the two holes Mack bogeyed. “I feel like we are really just in sync right now,” Mack said. “Even when one is like a little bit in trouble, the other one is making the birdie putt. It’s pretty cool to see.” The pair, both of whom joined the LPGA Tour in 2023, have no wins and only one top-10 finish between them. This is the fourth time the roommates have played together at this event, missing the cut the last two years after a T3 finish in their debut in 2023. “We have really good memories from three years ago and we know that we can do it, so I think we’re even striving for more this year,” Mack said. Furue and Nishimura delivered six of their nine birdies in succession as they wrapped around the back nine to the front. It was a clean day for both, with the pair only scoring two bogeys in the entire round — neither of which counted as the team’s score on the hole. “The first half, Ayaka helped out a lot,” Nishimura said. “In the second half, I was able to contribute so I’m happy about it. Korda and Cowan were even through Round 1 before tying for the best round of the day on Friday, pairing 11 birdies with a lone bogey they had to score on the par-4 16th. They were each bogey-free in the second half of their round, a six-under front nine. The pairs of Gina Kim and Yana Wilson (63), Japanese sisters Chizzy Iwai and Aki Iwai (63), Sweden’s Linn Grant and Maja Stark (63) and South Korea’s Hye-Jin Choi and Hyo Joo Kim (62) are tied for fourth at 9 under. Hall of Famer Juli Inkster, 66, became the oldest player to make an LPGA cut when she combined with 27-year-old Angel Yin for a 68 on Friday that elevated the duo to 3 under for the tournament. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Celine #Borge #Polly #Mack #halfway #LPGA #wins #Dow

#Deadspin #Celine #Borge #Polly #Mack #halfway #LPGA #wins #Dow">

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Polly Mack of Berlin, Germany, tees off on the 2nd hole on Thursday, Feb. 6th during the first round of the LPGA 2025 Founders Cup at the Bradenton Country Club in Bradenton, Florida.

Celine Borge of Norway and Polly Mack of Germany surged to the top of the leaderboard at the halfway point of the Dow Championship as they collaborated for a 10-under-par 60 score during the second round of the Dow Championship on Friday at Midland (Mich.) Country Club.

Borge and Mack began the day a stroke back after a 2-under opening round. They took major advantage of the four-ball format — considered the easier of the two for the team event — for the second round, combining for a bogey-free showing to sit at 12-under 128 through two rounds.

Japanese pair Ayaka Furue and Yuna Nishimura (61) are a stroke back at 11 under while world No. 1 Nelly Korda and her German teammate Olivia Cowan (60) are next at 10 under.

The LPGA’s lone team event features 72 two-woman teams. They played foursomes (alternate shot) on Thursday and four-ball (best ball) on Friday. The 34 teams that made the 36-hole cut play foursomes on Saturday and four-ball on Sunday.

Borge and Mack both did their part as they began the day on the back nine. They each tallied birdies on Nos. 12 and 17, Borge added one on the 10th hole and Mack did solo on the 14th.

Mack carried the load on the front nine, though, notching an eagle at the par-5 third hole and three other birdies. Borge didn’t have any under-par holes on the front nine, but she contributed pars on the two holes Mack bogeyed.

“I feel like we are really just in sync right now,” Mack said. “Even when one is like a little bit in trouble, the other one is making the birdie putt. It’s pretty cool to see.”

The pair, both of whom joined the LPGA Tour in 2023, have no wins and only one top-10 finish between them. This is the fourth time the roommates have played together at this event, missing the cut the last two years after a T3 finish in their debut in 2023.

“We have really good memories from three years ago and we know that we can do it, so I think we’re even striving for more this year,” Mack said.

Furue and Nishimura delivered six of their nine birdies in succession as they wrapped around the back nine to the front. It was a clean day for both, with the pair only scoring two bogeys in the entire round — neither of which counted as the team’s score on the hole.

“The first half, Ayaka helped out a lot,” Nishimura said. “In the second half, I was able to contribute so I’m happy about it.

Korda and Cowan were even through Round 1 before tying for the best round of the day on Friday, pairing 11 birdies with a lone bogey they had to score on the par-4 16th. They were each bogey-free in the second half of their round, a six-under front nine.

The pairs of Gina Kim and Yana Wilson (63), Japanese sisters Chizzy Iwai and Aki Iwai (63), Sweden’s Linn Grant and Maja Stark (63) and South Korea’s Hye-Jin Choi and Hyo Joo Kim (62) are tied for fourth at 9 under.

Hall of Famer Juli Inkster, 66, became the oldest player to make an LPGA cut when she combined with 27-year-old Angel Yin for a 68 on Friday that elevated the duo to 3 under for the tournament.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Celine #Borge #Polly #Mack #halfway #LPGA #wins #Dow">Deadspin | Celine Borge, Polly Mack halfway to first LPGA wins at Dow

Polly Mack of Berlin, Germany, tees off on the 2nd hole on Thursday, Feb. 6th during the first round of the LPGA 2025 Founders Cup at the Bradenton Country Club in Bradenton, Florida.

Celine Borge of Norway and Polly Mack of Germany surged to the top of the leaderboard at the halfway point of the Dow Championship as they collaborated for a 10-under-par 60 score during the second round of the Dow Championship on Friday at Midland (Mich.) Country Club.

Borge and Mack began the day a stroke back after a 2-under opening round. They took major advantage of the four-ball format — considered the easier of the two for the team event — for the second round, combining for a bogey-free showing to sit at 12-under 128 through two rounds.

Japanese pair Ayaka Furue and Yuna Nishimura (61) are a stroke back at 11 under while world No. 1 Nelly Korda and her German teammate Olivia Cowan (60) are next at 10 under.

The LPGA’s lone team event features 72 two-woman teams. They played foursomes (alternate shot) on Thursday and four-ball (best ball) on Friday. The 34 teams that made the 36-hole cut play foursomes on Saturday and four-ball on Sunday.

Borge and Mack both did their part as they began the day on the back nine. They each tallied birdies on Nos. 12 and 17, Borge added one on the 10th hole and Mack did solo on the 14th.

Mack carried the load on the front nine, though, notching an eagle at the par-5 third hole and three other birdies. Borge didn’t have any under-par holes on the front nine, but she contributed pars on the two holes Mack bogeyed.

“I feel like we are really just in sync right now,” Mack said. “Even when one is like a little bit in trouble, the other one is making the birdie putt. It’s pretty cool to see.”

The pair, both of whom joined the LPGA Tour in 2023, have no wins and only one top-10 finish between them. This is the fourth time the roommates have played together at this event, missing the cut the last two years after a T3 finish in their debut in 2023.

“We have really good memories from three years ago and we know that we can do it, so I think we’re even striving for more this year,” Mack said.

Furue and Nishimura delivered six of their nine birdies in succession as they wrapped around the back nine to the front. It was a clean day for both, with the pair only scoring two bogeys in the entire round — neither of which counted as the team’s score on the hole.

“The first half, Ayaka helped out a lot,” Nishimura said. “In the second half, I was able to contribute so I’m happy about it.

Korda and Cowan were even through Round 1 before tying for the best round of the day on Friday, pairing 11 birdies with a lone bogey they had to score on the par-4 16th. They were each bogey-free in the second half of their round, a six-under front nine.

The pairs of Gina Kim and Yana Wilson (63), Japanese sisters Chizzy Iwai and Aki Iwai (63), Sweden’s Linn Grant and Maja Stark (63) and South Korea’s Hye-Jin Choi and Hyo Joo Kim (62) are tied for fourth at 9 under.

Hall of Famer Juli Inkster, 66, became the oldest player to make an LPGA cut when she combined with 27-year-old Angel Yin for a 68 on Friday that elevated the duo to 3 under for the tournament.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Celine #Borge #Polly #Mack #halfway #LPGA #wins #Dow

LAGUNA NIGUEL, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 08: (EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE) (EDITOR’S NOTE: This image has been digitally altered.) Folarin Balogun #20 of the United States poses for a portrait during the official FIFA World Cup 2026 portrait session on June 08, 2026 in Laguna Niguel, California. (Photo by Richard Heathcote - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images) — LAGUNA NIGUEL, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 08: (EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE) (EDITOR’S NOTE: This image has been digitally altered.) Folarin Balogun #20 of the United States poses for a portrait during the official FIFA World Cup 2026 portrait session on June 08, 2026 in Laguna Niguel, California. (Photo by Richard Heathcote – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - JUNE 06: Christian Pulisic of United States reacts during the international friendly match between United States and Germany at Soldier Field on June 06, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Omar Vega/USSF/Getty Images) — LAGUNA NIGUEL, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 08: (EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE) (EDITOR’S NOTE: This image has been digitally altered.) Folarin Balogun #20 of the United States poses for a portrait during the official FIFA World Cup 2026 portrait session on June 08, 2026 in Laguna Niguel, California. (Photo by Richard Heathcote – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

#USMNT #World #Cup #roster #Meet #players #representing #United #States">

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The last time the US hosted Men’s World Cup games was in 1994, when Alexi Lalas was out on the pitch. The USMNT’s talent pool and profile have continued to grow steadily over the last couple of decades, but they haven’t found the signature breakout performance to transform their international reputation.
The Americans enter the 2026 tournament ranked 17 in FIFA’s World Rankings, after watching World Cup co-host Mexico take home the last two Gold Cups. Their recent World Cup record has been consistently competent – they’ve made it out of Group Stage in three of the last five Cups, but they haven’t advanced through a knockout game since 2002 (when they lost to Germany 1-0).
FanDuel’s World Cup odds foretell a similar pattern this year. The Americans are -135 favorites to reach the sweet 16, but +260 underdogs to reach the quarterfinals (tied with Colombia for 13th). They lag far behind France, Spain, England, and other leading favorites to win the tournament.
Here’s a list of all 26 players who’ll be looking to change the USMNT’s fortunes and make the leap to international stardom.
LAGUNA NIGUEL, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 08: (EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE) (EDITOR’S NOTE: This image has been digitally altered.) Folarin Balogun #20 of the United States poses for a portrait during the official FIFA World Cup 2026 portrait session on June 08, 2026 in Laguna Niguel, California. (Photo by Richard Heathcote – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
FIFA via Getty Images
#20 Folarin Balogun led AS Monaco in goals scored last season, and he’s entering the World Cup as the betting favorite to be the US’s top goalscorer. He averaged about 0.5 goals + assists per 90 minutes in Ligue 1 play.
#9 Ricardo Pepi broke his forearm in January, but he used his feet to establish himself as a high scoring option for PSV Eindhoven in Dutch Eredivisie.
#19 Haji Wright was the lead goalscorer (17 goals) for the Coventry City club that earned promotion to the Premier League after winning the English League Championship in April.
#21 Timothy Weah comes from Ballon d’Or lineage (his father, George Weah, won in 1995), and he helped Olympique Marseille to a fifth place finish in Ligue 1.
#26 Alejandro Zendejas has scored nine or more goals in each of the last three seasons for Club América in Liga MX.
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – JUNE 06: Christian Pulisic of United States reacts during the international friendly match between United States and Germany at Soldier Field on June 06, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Omar Vega/USSF/Getty Images)
Getty Images
#10 Christian Pulisic is eight years removed from being named the youngest-ever USMNT captain, and he’s now an experienced veteran entering his physical prime at 27. He went through an extended scoring drought but still netted eight goals overall for AC Milan, and he enters the tournament as the market’s second-best bet for top US goalscorer.
#4 Tyler Adams was playing well for AFC Bournemouth before suffering a torn MCL in December 2025. He’s had about four months to work himself back into form, and will be an important defensive presence.
#8 Weston McKennie might still line up at midfield for the US, but he has stepped up to start at forward for Juventus, and put away five goals and five assists in Serie A.
#7 Gio Reyna played primarily as a sub last year for Borussia Mönchengladbach after spending the previous six seasons with Borussia Dortmund. His father, Claudio Reyna, was on the 2002 USMNT squad that made it to the quarterfinals.
#17 Malik Tillman established himself as a starter with Bayer Leverkusen, scoring six goals in the Bundesliga last year.
#11 Brenden Aaronson took a step forward with Leeds United this year, logging 4 goals and a team-high 5 assists.
#14 Sebastian Berhalter has helped lead the Vancouver Whitecaps FC to four straight Canadian Cups. His father is former USMNT coach Gregg Berhalter.
#15 Cristian Roldan plays for Seattle Sounders FC, and helped them win the 2025 Leagues Cup.
#18 Max Arfsten plays for the Columbus Crew in league play, and he started all but one game in the USMNT’s runner-up finish in the 2025 Gold Cup.
LAGUNA NIGUEL, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 08: (EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE) (EDITOR’S NOTE: This image has been digitally altered.) Tim Ream #13 of the United States poses for a portrait during the official FIFA World Cup 2026 portrait session on June 08, 2026 in Laguna Niguel, California. (Photo by Richard Heathcote – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
FIFA via Getty Images
#13 Tim Ream is captain of this year’s squad, and an experienced vet with 82 caps under his belt. He’s been a steady defensive presence for Charlotte FC.
#16 Alex Freeman is enjoying his first season with Villarreal CF after a breakout 2025 in which he scored six goals for Orlando FC. He came up with two goals in USMNT 2025 friendlies.
#12 Miles Robinson helped FC Cincinnati pull within one point of the top of the MLS table last year.
#2 Sergino Dest has had two years to recover from an ACL injury, and has played both offense and defense for a PSV Eindhoven team that ran away with the Dutch Eredivisie title.
#3 Chris Richards started 31 games for Crystal Palace, serving as a constant presence and helping the club avoid relegation from the Premier League.
#5 Antonee Robinson just finished his fifth season playing with Fulham FC.
#23 Joe Scally earned appearances in 32 out of 34 matches for Borussia Mönchengladbach.
#6 Auston Trusty helped Celtic FC secure first place in the Scottish Premiership.
#22 Mark McKenzie played on a Toulouse team that finished in the middle of the pack of France’s Ligue 1.
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – JUNE 06: Matt Freese of United States looks on during the international friendly match between United States and Germany at Soldier Field on June 06, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Daniel Bartel/USSF/Getty Images)
Getty Images
#24 Matt Freese, the likely starter, went to Harvard before turning pro after two years. He now plays for New York City FC.
#1 Matt Turner brings World Cup experience, and holds down the nets for New England Revolution in MLS play.
#25 Chris Brady is a homegrown product of Chicago Fire FC, and likely the third option in net for this year’s Cup.

#USMNT #World #Cup #roster #Meet #players #representing #United #States">USMNT World Cup roster 2026: Meet all 26 players representing the United States

The last time the US hosted Men’s World Cup games was in 1994, when Alexi Lalas was out on the pitch. The USMNT’s talent pool and profile have continued to grow steadily over the last couple of decades, but they haven’t found the signature breakout performance to transform their international reputation.

The Americans enter the 2026 tournament ranked 17 in FIFA’s World Rankings, after watching World Cup co-host Mexico take home the last two Gold Cups. Their recent World Cup record has been consistently competent – they’ve made it out of Group Stage in three of the last five Cups, but they haven’t advanced through a knockout game since 2002 (when they lost to Germany 1-0).

FanDuel’s World Cup odds foretell a similar pattern this year. The Americans are -135 favorites to reach the sweet 16, but +260 underdogs to reach the quarterfinals (tied with Colombia for 13th). They lag far behind France, Spain, England, and other leading favorites to win the tournament.

Here’s a list of all 26 players who’ll be looking to change the USMNT’s fortunes and make the leap to international stardom.

LAGUNA NIGUEL, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 08: (EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE) (EDITOR’S NOTE: This image has been digitally altered.) Folarin Balogun #20 of the United States poses for a portrait during the official FIFA World Cup 2026 portrait session on June 08, 2026 in Laguna Niguel, California. (Photo by Richard Heathcote – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

FIFA via Getty Images

#20 Folarin Balogun led AS Monaco in goals scored last season, and he’s entering the World Cup as the betting favorite to be the US’s top goalscorer. He averaged about 0.5 goals + assists per 90 minutes in Ligue 1 play.

#9 Ricardo Pepi broke his forearm in January, but he used his feet to establish himself as a high scoring option for PSV Eindhoven in Dutch Eredivisie.

#19 Haji Wright was the lead goalscorer (17 goals) for the Coventry City club that earned promotion to the Premier League after winning the English League Championship in April.

#21 Timothy Weah comes from Ballon d’Or lineage (his father, George Weah, won in 1995), and he helped Olympique Marseille to a fifth place finish in Ligue 1.

#26 Alejandro Zendejas has scored nine or more goals in each of the last three seasons for Club América in Liga MX.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – JUNE 06: Christian Pulisic of United States reacts during the international friendly match between United States and Germany at Soldier Field on June 06, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Omar Vega/USSF/Getty Images)

Getty Images

#10 Christian Pulisic is eight years removed from being named the youngest-ever USMNT captain, and he’s now an experienced veteran entering his physical prime at 27. He went through an extended scoring drought but still netted eight goals overall for AC Milan, and he enters the tournament as the market’s second-best bet for top US goalscorer.

#4 Tyler Adams was playing well for AFC Bournemouth before suffering a torn MCL in December 2025. He’s had about four months to work himself back into form, and will be an important defensive presence.

#8 Weston McKennie might still line up at midfield for the US, but he has stepped up to start at forward for Juventus, and put away five goals and five assists in Serie A.

#7 Gio Reyna played primarily as a sub last year for Borussia Mönchengladbach after spending the previous six seasons with Borussia Dortmund. His father, Claudio Reyna, was on the 2002 USMNT squad that made it to the quarterfinals.

#17 Malik Tillman established himself as a starter with Bayer Leverkusen, scoring six goals in the Bundesliga last year.

#11 Brenden Aaronson took a step forward with Leeds United this year, logging 4 goals and a team-high 5 assists.

#14 Sebastian Berhalter has helped lead the Vancouver Whitecaps FC to four straight Canadian Cups. His father is former USMNT coach Gregg Berhalter.

#15 Cristian Roldan plays for Seattle Sounders FC, and helped them win the 2025 Leagues Cup.

#18 Max Arfsten plays for the Columbus Crew in league play, and he started all but one game in the USMNT’s runner-up finish in the 2025 Gold Cup.

LAGUNA NIGUEL, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 08: (EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE) (EDITOR’S NOTE: This image has been digitally altered.) Tim Ream #13 of the United States poses for a portrait during the official FIFA World Cup 2026 portrait session on June 08, 2026 in Laguna Niguel, California. (Photo by Richard Heathcote – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

FIFA via Getty Images

#13 Tim Ream is captain of this year’s squad, and an experienced vet with 82 caps under his belt. He’s been a steady defensive presence for Charlotte FC.

#16 Alex Freeman is enjoying his first season with Villarreal CF after a breakout 2025 in which he scored six goals for Orlando FC. He came up with two goals in USMNT 2025 friendlies.

#12 Miles Robinson helped FC Cincinnati pull within one point of the top of the MLS table last year.

#2 Sergino Dest has had two years to recover from an ACL injury, and has played both offense and defense for a PSV Eindhoven team that ran away with the Dutch Eredivisie title.

#3 Chris Richards started 31 games for Crystal Palace, serving as a constant presence and helping the club avoid relegation from the Premier League.

#5 Antonee Robinson just finished his fifth season playing with Fulham FC.

#23 Joe Scally earned appearances in 32 out of 34 matches for Borussia Mönchengladbach.

#6 Auston Trusty helped Celtic FC secure first place in the Scottish Premiership.

#22 Mark McKenzie played on a Toulouse team that finished in the middle of the pack of France’s Ligue 1.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – JUNE 06: Matt Freese of United States looks on during the international friendly match between United States and Germany at Soldier Field on June 06, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Daniel Bartel/USSF/Getty Images)

Getty Images

#24 Matt Freese, the likely starter, went to Harvard before turning pro after two years. He now plays for New York City FC.

#1 Matt Turner brings World Cup experience, and holds down the nets for New England Revolution in MLS play.

#25 Chris Brady is a homegrown product of Chicago Fire FC, and likely the third option in net for this year’s Cup.

#USMNT #World #Cup #roster #Meet #players #representing #United #States

Are ticket prices causing empty stadiums at FIFA World Cup 2026? World football body clarifies FIFA reported an attendance ‌of 44,985 for Thursday’s World Cup match between South Korea and the Czech Republic (Czechia) in Guadalajara, but swathes of empty seats around the stadium renewed concerns ⁠over ticket pricing and demand for the expanded tournament.While more than 80,000 squeezed into the Mexico City stadium to watch the opening game between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa, the optics of unoccupied rows at the 46,000-seat stadium in ‌Guadalajara, a city with a deep-rooted football culture, have intensified criticism of FIFA’s commercial strategy for the first 48-team World Cup.Fans at the stadium blamed the high ticket ‌prices for the rows of empty seats and criticised FIFA for its pricing model.“Official attendance ‌figures ⁠reflect the number of tickets scanned and spectators present within the stadium footprint, ⁠rather than visual assessments of seating occupancy at any given moment during the match,” FIFA said in a statement to Reuters.Official attendance figures reflect the number of tickets scanned and spectators present within the stadium footprint, rather than visual assessments of seating occupancy at any given moment during the match. FIFA works closely with stadium authorities and ticketing teams to… pic.twitter.com/UIJ0y9xTFp— FIFA Media (@fifamedia) June 12, 2026FIFA’S PRICING STRATEGYWith Mexico’s game at the Azteca always expected to sell out, South Korea’s meeting with the Czech Republic — ranked 25th and 37th respectively — at the tournament’s second-smallest stadium, provided the first genuine test of FIFA’s ⁠pricing strategy.The crowd was dominated by Mexican fans in home colours, alongside a noticeable South Korean contingent, but only a limited Czech presence.ALSO READ: FIFA World Cup 2026 has finally arrived, but does it really matter to the USA?The Czechs qualified late in March and faced demanding travel schedules in ‌the group stage.FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Wednesday defended FIFA’s ticket pricing following criticism from supporters who argued the cost of attending matches had become prohibitive. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has argued that the ticket prices have followed the industry standard for global sporting events.
| Photo Credit:
AP

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has argued that the ticket prices have followed the industry standard for global sporting events.
| Photo Credit:
AP
He said ticket prices were on a par with other major sporting events.FIFA has sold more than six million tickets for the tournament and previously highlighted strong interest from across the Americas, with Infantino saying demand had exceeded expectations by “a factor of 10 or more”.However, groups such as Football Supporters Europe (FSE) had warned that “extortionate” pricing would exclude ordinary ‌fans. According to FSE, ticket prices for this tournament have jumped five-fold compared to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.(With inputs from Reuters)Published on Jun 13, 2026 #ticket #prices #causing #empty #stadiums #FIFA #World #Cup #World #football #body #clarifies — FIFA President Gianni Infantino has argued that the ticket prices have followed the industry standard for global sporting events. | Photo Credit: AP

#ticket #prices #causing #empty #stadiums #FIFA #World #Cup #World #football #body #clarifies">

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FIFA reported an attendance ‌of 44,985 for Thursday’s World Cup match between South Korea and the Czech Republic (Czechia) in Guadalajara, but swathes of empty seats around the stadium renewed concerns ⁠over ticket pricing and demand for the expanded tournament.
While more than 80,000 squeezed into the Mexico City stadium to watch the opening game between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa, the optics of unoccupied rows at the 46,000-seat stadium in ‌Guadalajara, a city with a deep-rooted football culture, have intensified criticism of FIFA’s commercial strategy for the first 48-team World Cup.
Fans at the stadium blamed the high ticket ‌prices for the rows of empty seats and criticised FIFA for its pricing model.
“Official attendance ‌figures ⁠reflect the number of tickets scanned and spectators present within the stadium footprint, ⁠rather than visual assessments of seating occupancy at any given moment during the match,” FIFA said in a statement to Reuters.
Official attendance figures reflect the number of tickets scanned and spectators present within the stadium footprint, rather than visual assessments of seating occupancy at any given moment during the match. FIFA works closely with stadium authorities and ticketing teams to… pic.twitter.com/UIJ0y9xTFp
— FIFA Media (@fifamedia) June 12, 2026

FIFA’S PRICING STRATEGY

With Mexico’s game at the Azteca always expected to sell out, South Korea’s meeting with the Czech Republic — ranked 25th and 37th respectively — at the tournament’s second-smallest stadium, provided the first genuine test of FIFA’s ⁠pricing strategy.

The crowd was dominated by Mexican fans in home colours, alongside a noticeable South Korean contingent, but only a limited Czech presence.

ALSO READ: FIFA World Cup 2026 has finally arrived, but does it really matter to the USA?

The Czechs qualified late in March and faced demanding travel schedules in ‌the group stage.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Wednesday defended FIFA’s ticket pricing following criticism from supporters who argued the cost of attending matches had become prohibitive.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has argued that the ticket prices have followed the industry standard for global sporting events. | Photo Credit: AP

He said ticket prices were on a par with other major sporting events.

FIFA has sold more than six million tickets for the tournament and previously highlighted strong interest from across the Americas, with Infantino saying demand had exceeded expectations by “a factor of 10 or more”.

However, groups such as Football Supporters Europe (FSE) had warned that “extortionate” pricing would exclude ordinary ‌fans. According to FSE, ticket prices for this tournament have jumped five-fold compared to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Published on Jun 13, 2026

#ticket #prices #causing #empty #stadiums #FIFA #World #Cup #World #football #body #clarifies">Are ticket prices causing empty stadiums at FIFA World Cup 2026? World football body clarifies

FIFA reported an attendance ‌of 44,985 for Thursday’s World Cup match between South Korea and the Czech Republic (Czechia) in Guadalajara, but swathes of empty seats around the stadium renewed concerns ⁠over ticket pricing and demand for the expanded tournament.

While more than 80,000 squeezed into the Mexico City stadium to watch the opening game between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa, the optics of unoccupied rows at the 46,000-seat stadium in ‌Guadalajara, a city with a deep-rooted football culture, have intensified criticism of FIFA’s commercial strategy for the first 48-team World Cup.

Fans at the stadium blamed the high ticket ‌prices for the rows of empty seats and criticised FIFA for its pricing model.

“Official attendance ‌figures ⁠reflect the number of tickets scanned and spectators present within the stadium footprint, ⁠rather than visual assessments of seating occupancy at any given moment during the match,” FIFA said in a statement to Reuters.

Official attendance figures reflect the number of tickets scanned and spectators present within the stadium footprint, rather than visual assessments of seating occupancy at any given moment during the match. FIFA works closely with stadium authorities and ticketing teams to… pic.twitter.com/UIJ0y9xTFp
— FIFA Media (@fifamedia) June 12, 2026

FIFA’S PRICING STRATEGY

The crowd was dominated by Mexican fans in home colours, alongside a noticeable South Korean contingent, but only a limited Czech presence.

ALSO READ: FIFA World Cup 2026 has finally arrived, but does it really matter to the USA?

The Czechs qualified late in March and faced demanding travel schedules in ‌the group stage.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Wednesday defended FIFA’s ticket pricing following criticism from supporters who argued the cost of attending matches had become prohibitive.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has argued that the ticket prices have followed the industry standard for global sporting events. | Photo Credit: AP

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has argued that the ticket prices have followed the industry standard for global sporting events. | Photo Credit: AP

He said ticket prices were on a par with other major sporting events.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Published on Jun 13, 2026

#ticket #prices #causing #empty #stadiums #FIFA #World #Cup #World #football #body #clarifies

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