Max Arfsten
USADefenderColumbus CrewMax Arfsten goes into World Cup 2026 as a defensive option with tournament responsibility for USA. He arrives with international experience already logged in the checked data. Columbus Crew provides his recent club rhythm before the tournament. The focus is duel timing, compact spacing, set-piece defending and the first pass out.
Group D
Jun 12, 2026vs Paraguay - 6:00 PM PDT
Quick Facts
Max Arfsten and USA World Cup 2026 Squad
USA selected Max Arfsten for World Cup 2026 with a clear football task. As a defender, he can hold the line, defend crosses and move the ball without inviting pressure.
Arfsten is part of a group of 10 defenders, so the opponent and match state can affect his minutes.
International Record
Max Arfsten arrives with international experience already logged in the checked data.
Arfsten's senior international timeline dates back to 2025, which gives the record more weight than a simple squad listing.
International Record
- World Cup 2026 role: USA list Max Arfsten as a defender, with minutes linked to form, workload and game state.
- Group opponents: USA face Paraguay, Australia and Türkiye in the group stage.
Playing Style and Strengths
Arfsten's World Cup value starts with duel timing, compact spacing, set-piece defending and the first pass out.
On the ball, Arfsten's decisions matter because one loose pass can expose the back line.
- Duel timing
- Compact spacing
- Set-piece defending
- First pass out
- Cover runs
- Box protection
World Cup 2026 Fixtures
USA start against Paraguay on 12 June 2026 in Los Angeles. For Arfsten, the first match is a direct test of match rhythm and role clarity.
Australia follow on 19 June 2026 in Seattle. For Arfsten, the second fixture can quickly change the selection picture if the opener leaves USA chasing points or protecting workload.
| Kickoff | Opponent | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Jun 12, 20266:00 PM PDT | Paraguay | Los Angeles Stadium, Los Angeles |
| Jun 19, 202612:00 PM PDT |  Australia | Seattle Stadium, Seattle |
| Jun 25, 20267:00 PM PDT |  Türkiye | Los Angeles Stadium, Los Angeles |
Dates and kickoff times above are shown in the venue timezone.
Recent Form
Max Arfsten played 15 MLS matches for Columbus Crew in 2026, scoring 4 goals and providing 4 assists.
USA will read form through actions that show in matches, not reputation alone. Training sharpness, recovery and the scoreline can still decide Arfsten's minutes.
Career Stats
Max Arfsten arrives with international experience already logged in the checked data.
For USA, the numbers guide the selection picture, but they do not replace match readiness. The opener still has to fit Arfsten's form and the opponent's plan.
| Field | Verified value |
|---|---|
| Team | USA |
| Position | Defender |
| Club | Columbus Crew |
| Caps | verified |
| Goals | verified |
| Born | Verified locally |
World Cup 2026 Role
Max Arfsten enters World Cup 2026 with USA as a defender. Match role, form and group-stage needs will shape his minutes.
USA will judge him through training rhythm before the tournament. The useful signs are duel timing, spacing and the first pass forward.
USA start against Paraguay on Jun 12, 2026 in Los Angeles. Australia and Türkiye come next in the group. The match order can affect workload and selection.
FAQ
Is Max Arfsten in the USA World Cup 2026 squad?
Yes. Max Arfsten is in USA's World Cup 2026 squad in the checked player data.
What position does Max Arfsten play?
He is listed as a defender for USA.
How many international caps and goals does Max Arfsten have?
The page lists the available international record from the checked player data.
Who are USA's World Cup 2026 group opponents?
USA face Paraguay, Australia and Türkiye in the group stage.
When is Max Arfsten's first World Cup 2026 match?
USA start against Paraguay on 12 June 2026 in Los Angeles.
What is Max Arfsten's latest club form?
He plays for Columbus Crew in the checked player facts.
More USA World Cup 2026 Player Profiles
Explore more USA squad profiles, including teammates who can share minutes, supply service or affect the same match plan.
Group D Table
| # | Team | P | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | USA | 3 | 4 | 6 |
| 2 | Australia | 3 | 0 | 4 |
| 3 | Paraguay | 3 | -2 | 4 |
| 4 | Türkiye | 3 | -2 | 3 |