19-Year-Old Defender Surges Onto USMNT's World Cup Radar
A German-American dual national has emerged as a surprise contender for the U.S. national team's 2026 World Cup roster after breaking into the starting lineup at FC Augsburg.
Noahkai Banks, a 19-year-old German-American dual national, has quickly risen to prominence as a potential late addition to the U.S. men's national team (USMNT) roster for this summer's World Cup. After earning a starting role along FC Augsburg's backline last fall, Banks has continued to impress, forcing his way into consideration for a spot on Mauricio Pochettino's 26-man squad.
Just months ago, Pochettino's World Cup roster seemed set, with no late surprises expected. However, Banks' rapid development has changed the calculus, and the young defender is now firmly on the USMNT's radar as a potential wild card selection.
Source: The Guardian
