Columbus Crew's Max Arfsten will represent the United States at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Arfsten is one of three MLS defenders on the USMNT roster, alongside center backs Tim Ream (Charlotte FC) and Miles Robinson (FC Cincinnati). A SuperDraft selection by Columbus, Arfsten began his MLS career with the San Jose Earthquakes' MLS NEXT Pro team. After developing under former head coach Wilfried Nancy, Arfsten burst onto the scene in 2024 and played a key role as Columbus won that season's Leagues Cup. He continued to catch eyes in 2025 and was named an MLS All-Star. Arfsten has rolled that success into 2026, pacing the Crew with a joint-best eight goal contributions (4g/4a).