Patrick Agyemang Not Yet USMNT’s Main Man, Says Keller

Patrick Agyemang may have spearheaded the U.S. attack at the recent Gold Cup, but national-team legend Kasey Keller believes the Charlotte FC rookie still needs time before he can be trusted as the starting striker at a World Cup.

Patrick Agyemang’s Rapid Rise Meets Reality Check

Agyemang featured in every Gold Cup match and struck twice, yet Keller told ESPN’s Futbol Americas that the 23-year-old was unfairly thrust into a role for which he is not fully prepared. The former goalkeeper pointed to late withdrawals from Haji Wright and the continued absence of Josh Sargent as reasons coach Mauricio Pochettino turned to Agyemang. “You’re basically saying, ‘you’re our guy,’ and that’s a tough ask,” Keller said.

Lack of Alternatives Hurt the USMNT

With few fit centre-forwards, Pochettino relied heavily on Agyemang’s pace and 6’4″ frame, using him as both target man and pressing trigger. Keller, however, stressed that the youngster’s limited professional résumé—just 18 MLS starts—showed in his hold-up play and positional awareness against seasoned CONCACAF defences.

Projection Toward 2026

Keller views Agyemang as a potential late-game option in 2026 rather than a 90-minute focal point: “Off the bench for 10 minutes, banging bodies—absolutely. But starting? Not yet.” He compared the role to the one Jordan Morris once filled, offering physicality and direct running in desperate moments.

What Comes Next

Agyemang returns to Charlotte FC for MLS duty against New York City FC on 12 July, then DC United four days later. Continued club minutes will be crucial if he is to sharpen his first touch and tactical instincts in time for the next international window.

Opinion: Patience Is the Play

The U.S. supporter base craves a dominant No. 9, but fast-tracking prospects rarely works. Let Agyemang grow in MLS; if he proves ready, great—if not, the system, not a single striker, must be the solution.