Forgotten Celtic star makes bold 2026 World Cup claim despite limited starts

Auston Trusty is full of belief that he will make the 2026 World Cup with the United States, despite struggling for starts at Celtic so far this season

Auston Trusty is adamant he will shine for Celtic and the United States ahead of the World Cup in 2026. The American defender has struggled for appearances this season, coming off the bench three times and only completing one full 90 minutes in a cup competition.

While the centre-back has been dealing with plantar fasciitis, he is adamant that he will return with a newfound confidence to shine for both club and country. During a recent appearance on The Rondo podcast, the 27-year-old backed his own performances for the Scottish side since joining in 2024.

Trusty said: “I’m performing at an extremely high level. Look at all my stats, look at all of the people I’m defending in the Champions League and now, the Europa League.”

The defender was first called up to the United States national team in 2018, making his senior debut in 2023. With four international caps under his belt, Trusty insists he will make a return to Mauricio Pochettino’s team selection in the future.

He said: “I will do anything possible to be on that team and be a player of that magnitude and be the guy for the US. I know I can do it. I’ve shown it. And it’s just about getting opportunities. When I get the opportunity, I thrive in it. When I get the opportunity, it’s game over.

“When you get the opportunity to get called up, it’s about performing…Anyone competing for such a historic tournament, playing in the World Cup in the US, that’s a prized possession of any American. So, we’re all coming with that mindset.”

With a congested list of Europa League and domestic fixtures coming up for Celtic, boss Brendan Rodgers will be hoping he can call upon the American international in the weeks to come.