Christian Pulisic has defended himself from criticism regarding his national team absence, also commenting on his start to 2025-26 at AC Milan.
Pulisic was at the centre of a storm after requesting to miss the Gold Cup, stating that he was tired after consecutive campaigns for Milan in which he played at least 50 matches across all competitions. Some accused him of abandoning the cause, and Mauricio Pochettino fanned the flames.
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The rest seems to have done the forward good for the Rossoneri at least. Pulisic has six goals and two assists in just eight matches for Milan so far in the new campaign, earning the Serie A Player of the Month title for September.
‘I wanted to start really strong’
Pulisic spoke to reporters before the USMNT’s match against Ecuador, one in which he came on during the second half after worries about an ankle injury. His words were relayed by ProSoccerWire.
“I worked really hard this summer. It’s not like I just took a break. I wanted to make sure that my body was in the perfect spot coming into the season, and I wanted to start really strong, and I worked really hard,” he said.
“Start to the season? It’s just been consistency and the work I’ve put in, and it’s good to see it come to fruition and [to be] playing well. But it’s just the start of the season. I have so much more I want to accomplish.”
As mentioned, the former Chelsea man came off the bench in the draw with Ecuador, but it remains to be seen if he will start or even play a part in the next game against Australia, which is in the early hours of Wednesday morning (European time).
I hope he doesn’t play for USA. He still isn’t at 100% and it benefits Milan if he comes on from the bench for 20-30 minutes.
agreed. His spot on the USMNT is not in question and we know how to use him. He will help the national team more by remaining in good form for Milan and going into the world cup with confidence.
Pulisic is humble, no stupid scandals, he does what we want from him and stays within the ‘regular guy’ mentality. Just pure sportsmanship and professionalism. The right person for the team.