The 2026 FIFA World Cup officially begins on Thursday, and expectations are high for the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT), as it hosts the extraordinary event alongside Canada and Mexico.
Unfortunately for the United States, confidence amongst fans isn’t exactly sky-high, with many of the squad’s key players struggling in their matches leading up to the World Cup. Star player Christian Pulisic has not been exempt from those criticisms, either.
The 27-year-old is coming off an extremely disappointing season that included a five-month goal drought, which was finally broken in the U.S.’s win over Senegal. Still, his struggles are among the biggest talking points surrounding the team, and head coach Mauricio Pochettino was honest about his star’s play of late.
“No, it’s true that it’s been tough this season in Milan, because it’s true that this is not how he expected to be,” Pochettino said, via Athlon Sports.
As concerning as Pulisic’s struggles have been, Pochettino is aware that his squad will need to lean on his winger, and hasn’t lost faith in his ability.
“But I think we really trust him. We really believe he’s a very, very good player and hope that he finds the possibility to show all the talent he has in our team.”
The U.S opens Group D play on Friday against Paraguay, with fixtures against Australia and Turkey looming.
About Qwame Skinner
Qwame Skinner has loved both writing and sports his entire life. In addition to his sports coverage at Comeback Media, Qwame writes novels, and his debut; The First Casualty, an adult fantasy, is out now.