The report says Adams remains under scrutiny after another disrupted spell. He returned in April but played fewer than six hours across the United States’ final seven Premier League rounds, following reported knee and posterior-thigh problems.
That matters because Adams is more than a holding midfielder in Mauricio Pochettino’s structure. He protects the back line, supports the press and gives the wide players freedom to advance. The report credits him with ranking fourth among Premier League midfielders for interceptions last season, while also placing him among the top 30 for tackles, aerial duels and clearances.
If Adams cannot handle a full match, the United States may have to reduce the intensity of its press or change the balance behind its attacking trio.
Canada’s pressure is concentrated on Jonathan David. The report contrasts his 25 goals in all competitions for Lille with eight during his first Juventus season.
The decline is clear in output, but the underlying picture is less severe. His non-penalty expected goals and expected assists reportedly remained at a similar level, pointing to a finishing problem or a less productive attacking environment rather than a complete loss of involvement.
At home in the opening match, David has an immediate chance to reset the narrative. Canada will need his movement and penalty-box efficiency if it is to avoid being drawn into a direct battle with Bosnia and Herzegovina for second place.
The United States is expected to challenge for top spot alongside Turkey, Australia and Paraguay, but the gap between the leading sides appears narrow. Canada’s route looks more fragile, with the Bosnia contest potentially decisive.
The opening fixtures will provide the first answers: whether Adams can sustain the American midfield and whether David can turn solid involvement into goals.