Pulisic Defends His Choices Ahead of Gold Cup

In a candid revelation, soccer star Christian Pulisic clarified his absence from the upcoming Gold Cup, emphasizing that he had requested to participate in two friendly matches prior to the tournament—a request that was ultimately denied by the US national team coaches.

During a recent appearance on the CBS Sports podcast "Call it What You Want," Pulisic reflected on his demanding season with AC Milan, where he played a grueling 50 games. As fatigue crept in, he began to weigh the importance of rest for his long-term health and performance, particularly with the highly anticipated 2026 World Cup on the horizon.

Navigating Criticism from Legends

Pulisic's decision has not gone unnoticed, sparking backlash from notable former players, including Landon Donovan and Tim Howard, who questioned his commitment to the national team. In response, Pulisic proclaimed that such criticism is "way out of line" and does not reflect the supportive discussions he has had with these legends in private.

Expressing his disappointment, he stated, "It’s tough because I grew up idolizing these guys. Privately, they express support, yet publicly it feels different. While I’m not surprised by the opinions, it still stings."

Family Support and Standing Firm

Showing unwavering support, Pulisic’s father, Mark, sparked controversy by confronting Donovan on social media, urging him to "grow a pair" and reminding everyone of his own previous hiatus from the national team.

Though Pulisic didn't directly address his father’s comments during the podcast, he highlighted an ongoing issue: the tendency for some critics to fracture the fanbase and create negativity around the national team. "I don't understand why people feel the need to be divisive when they've faced their own challenges," he said.

A Tough Summer for USMNT

The US Men's National Team has stumbled recently, facing disappointing losses against Turkey and Switzerland in their summer schedule, further intensifying scrutiny on the squad. Pulisic condemned those who attribute these defeats to a lack of commitment, labeling such claims as a "lazy take." "We never step onto the field without giving our all. Every player wants success just as much as the fans do," he affirmed.

Looking Ahead to the Future

As Pulisic and his teammates navigate this rocky period, the focus remains on mindset and preparation moving into a critical year leading up to the World Cup. Pulisic's determination to prioritize his health and future could be key in shaping a resilient USMNT ready to take on the world.