Alexi Lalas expects Christian Pulisic to be drafted back into the USMNT roster for September’s friendlies against Japan and South Korea.
Pulisic was absent from this summer’s Gold Cup tournament. So were Juventus stars Tim Weah and Weston McKennie owing to their involvement in the Club World Cup.
The US went all the way to the final where they lost out to rivals Mexico. Chris Richards put Mauricio Pochettino’s side ahead before Raul Jimenez and Edson Alvarez clinched a 2-1 win for the Tricolor.
Now, Lalas has confessed that he fully expects Pulisic to be recalled. However, the 1994 World Cup hero also explained that it wouldn’t be a huge surprise to see Pulisic left out once again.
Why Did Christian Pulisic Miss The Gold Cup?
Christian Pulisic missed the Gold Cup after the Milan star asked for extra rest after a grueling campaign in Italy. Pulisic defended his USMNT absence after a number of critics hit out at him.
Landon Donovan was extremely vocal in blasting Pulisic but the player himself admitted he wants to be in the best possible shape ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
‘Captain America‘ is widely regarded as one of the best US players in history. The 26-year-old has netted 32 goals in 78 appearances for the national side.
Naturally, his extended summer absence did upset a number of ex-players and supporters. However, Pulisic’s point is valid and he has clocked up exactly 100 games over the last two seasons.
Alexi Lalas On Christian Pulisic
“It would not surprise me in the least if he makes an example of multiple players, whether it’s Christian Pulisic or anybody else.
“It would not surprise me in the least if he again lays down the law by the decisions that he makes. And I think he can afford to do that,” Lalas told the State of Union podcast.
“[If players are dropped] you’re just kicking the can down the road in that at some point, you want to have those players together. Even if it’s just for a friendly, you want them in camp together. You want to see what they’re going to look like.
“You also want whatever time you’re going to get to kind of deal with whatever crap there is, because these are the players – whether you like them or not, it doesn’t really matter. These are the players that you’re going to have.”
Will Christian Pulisic Stay At Milan?
According to the best offshore sportsbooks, Christian Pulisic will be staying at Milan for 2025-26. A new contract offer is reportedly on the table but is yet to be signed.
Last season, Pulisic registered 20 goal contributions in Serie A (nine goals, 11 assists). The USMNT star also scored a further six times in cup competitions.
His record-breaking form in front of goal has seen some of Europe’s biggest clubs inquiring about Pulisic. However, with new head coach Max Allegri in the dugout, Pulisic looks destined to stay at the San Siro.
