Lionel Messi’s teenage team-mate Tyer Hall targets USMNT 2026 World Cup spot despite being yet to make competitive debut for Inter Miami

The 17-year-old defender, who is currently captain of his country at U17 level, is not short on confidence and has lofty ambitions for his promising career. Hall has a long way to go before he can be considered for international selection at senior level, as he is yet to make a competitive debut for his MLS employers, but time is still very much on his side.

Hall has told FIFA’s official website of pushing for a place in the United States’ plans for 2026, as they prepare to fill hosting duties alongside neighbours Canada and Mexico: “It's something that's in my mind. The World Cup coming to America is huge, of course. To have a spot in the main USA team is my end goal. I just hope one day I can make that step.”

The potential is clearly there in Hall’s game to reach the very top, with the youngster – who is a big fan of Virgil van Dijk and Sergio Ramos – adding on the qualities that he brings to any defensive unit: “My main strength is my one-v-one ability – being able to go against the forwards and being patient to win the ball. My speed, my ability to understand the game, command the game and be a leader on the field are also important. Also, on the ball, I'm able to find passes. I'm starting to develop that more and add that to my skillset.”

For now, Hall is picking up important lessons working alongside the likes of seven-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi in Inter Miami training – with there every chance that his big break in Florida could come during the 2024 MLS campaign.