Unsung Heroes: Five Fringe Players Who Could Shine in the U.S. Gold Cup
As the 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup kicks off this summer, the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) is poised to showcase both established stars and emerging talent. While household names like Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie dominate headlines, five fringe players could steal the spotlight. These under-the-radar talents, often overlooked in crowded position groups, have the skills to become breakout performers when given the chance on the continental stage.
The Gold Cup as a Launchpad for Emerging Talent
Historically, the Gold Cup has served as a proving ground for players on the cusp of national team prominence. Unlike the Nations League, which often features first-choice lineups, the Gold Cup’s summer timing allows coaches to rotate squads and evaluate depth. In 2021, players like Miles Robinson and James Sands used strong Gold Cup performances to cement their national team roles.
“The Gold Cup provides invaluable opportunities for players who might not get minutes in World Cup qualifiers or against top European opponents,” explains former USMNT midfielder and current analyst Sacha Kljestan. “For these fringe guys, it’s about showing they can translate club form to international play.”
Five Potential Breakout Stars
Based on recent club performances and tactical fit, these five players could emerge as difference-makers:
- Alan Soñora (MF, FC Juárez) – The 24-year-old playmaker has quietly become one of Liga MX’s most creative midfielders, ranking in the top 10 for chances created (42) and successful dribbles (68) this season.
- Johnny Cardoso (MF, Internacional) – The Brazilian-born defensive midfielder has started 15 matches for Internacional in 2023, showcasing the tactical discipline the USMNT lacks behind Tyler Adams.
- Brandon Vazquez (FW, FC Cincinnati) – With 8 goals in 14 MLS matches, the powerful striker offers a different profile from the USMNT’s typical forwards. His aerial win rate (63%) dwarfs Jesús Ferreira’s (41%).
- Sam Rogers (CB, Rosenborg) – The 6’4″ center back has been a revelation in Norway, leading Eliteserien in clearances (98) while completing 87% of his passes.
- Paxten Aaronson (MF, Eintracht Frankfurt) – Though still adapting to the Bundesliga, the younger Aaronson brother has dazzled in limited minutes, averaging 2.3 key passes per 90 in Europa League play.
Tactical Fit and Opportunity
Head coach B.J. Callaghan faces interesting selection dilemmas. With many European-based stars likely to be rested after long club seasons, the Gold Cup roster should feature more MLS and fringe European players. This creates perfect conditions for the five highlighted talents to stake their claims.
“Players like Vazquez and Soñora fill specific needs the USMNT has struggled with,” notes tactical analyst Matt Doyle. “A true target forward and a creative midfielder who can unlock defenses could completely change how this team approaches certain matches.”
The tournament’s group stage—featuring matches against Jamaica, Nicaragua, and a yet-to-be-determined opponent—provides ideal scenarios to integrate new contributors before knockout rounds demand peak performance.
Historical Precedent for Gold Cup Breakouts
Recent tournaments demonstrate how fringe players can use the Gold Cup as a springboard:
- 2019: Jordan Morris scored 3 goals after returning from ACL surgery
- 2017: Matt Miazga solidified his defensive credentials with dominant performances
- 2015: Brad Guzan took over as starting goalkeeper after Tim Howard’s sabbatical
This year’s candidates could follow similar paths. Rogers’ physicality would help against CONCACAF’s typically robust forwards, while Cardoso’s positional awareness could provide the midfield stability often missing against high-pressing opponents.
Challenges and Considerations
While the opportunities are clear, challenges remain. The compressed tournament schedule—with matches every 3-4 days—tests depth and fitness. Additionally, CONCACAF’s notoriously physical play requires quick adaptation from players accustomed to more technical leagues.
There’s also the question of how many minutes each player will actually receive. With established veterans likely to start knockout matches, fringe players must maximize their opportunities in group play or off the bench.
The Bigger Picture: Building Depth for 2026
With the 2026 World Cup on home soil looming, the Gold Cup represents a critical evaluation period. The USMNT needs to develop reliable depth beyond its core 15-18 players, particularly in positions where injuries have exposed shallow rosters.
“We’re at a stage where we need 25-30 players who can step in without dropping the level,” says former USMNT goalkeeper Tim Howard. “The Gold Cup lets us see who can handle that pressure when the spotlight finds them.”
For the five players highlighted—and others on the roster’s fringes—this summer could mark the beginning of their national team ascents or confirm their status as peripheral figures. Their performances won’t just impact the Gold Cup; they could reshape the USMNT’s depth chart heading into World Cup preparations.
What Comes Next
As the tournament approaches, all eyes will be on Callaghan’s roster decisions. Fans can track these players’ form in the weeks leading up to the June 24 opener against Jamaica. For those wanting deeper analysis, the USMNT’s pre-tournament friendlies will offer clues about potential roles and tactical deployments.
The 2023 Gold Cup represents more than another regional trophy—it’s a golden opportunity for the next wave of USMNT talent to announce itself. Whether any of these five fringe players seize the moment could determine both their international futures and the team’s long-term prospects.
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