The 1990s marked a pivotal era for soccer in the United States, with the 1994 World Cup and the launch of Major League Soccer in 1996. Many notable players helped set the stage for a new wave of optimism as the USMNT enters knockout round play.

Iconic Players

Here are 10 iconic U.S. men’s national team soccer players to know before the 2026 World Cup Round of 32. Landon Donovan, a Southern California native, has an impressive background in soccer with 57 goals for the national team. Cobi Jones was one of many early iconic U.S. players to be part of soccer-mania unfolding in the 90s. Tim Howard is widely regarded as one of the greatest American players in history after an acclaimed playing career.

Other notable players include Clint Dempsey, Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, Claudio Reyna, Alexi Lalas, and Brad Friedel. These players have made significant contributions to the USMNT and have helped shape the sport in the United States.

Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.