The Christian Pulisic-Landon Donovan feud has taken a new twist after Pulisic Snr hit back at the former USMNT star.
A war of words escalated on Sunday when Donovan was working as a pundit on FOX Sports. The 43-year-old was covering the UEFA Nations League final between Spain and Portugal.
Donovan explained how much it meant for 40-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo to still be winning trophies for his country despite being in his twilight years.
The former Man United and Real Madrid superstar was extremely emotional as the Seleaco beat their arch rivals in a penalty shootout after a thrilling 2-2 draw.
This prompted Donovan to hit out at US stars skipping the Gold Cup this month. Although he didn’t directly name Pulisic, it’s fairly obvious he was talking about the Milan midfielder.
What Did Landon Donovan Say After Portugal Beat Spain?
“This is what it means to represent your country,” Donovan said as the broadcast showed Cristiano Ronaldo and his Portugal teammates celebrating their Nations League title.
“This is what it means. And if you don’t want to take this as a professional soccer player, as someone who gets the opportunity to wear that jersey and take it seriously and responsibly, then don’t come in. This is what it means.
“Ronaldo’s 40 years old. He’s played a long a** season. He’s tired. And he’s out there grinding. Hurt himself in the process, and I can’t help but think about some of our guys on vacation, not wanting to play in the Gold Cup. It’s p*****g me off.”
Christian Pulisic’s Father Hits Back At Landon Donovan
Christian Pulisic’s dad Mark claps back at Landon Donovan for criticizing USMNT players for sitting out of the Gold Cup, referencing the sabbatical he took in his career.
Christian Pulisic also liked the post. pic.twitter.com/DfRF3ixsvl
— USMNT Only (@usmntonly) June 9, 2025
Although his son wasn’t directly named by Landon Donovan on Sunday, Mark Pulisic saw it as a subtle dig and reminded the former USMNT star of his own 2013 sabbatical.
Pulisic Snr posted on Instagram a screenshot of a Chat GPT answer as to why Donovan decided to have an extended break. Ultimately missing two 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Here is the response:
“Landon Donovan took his sabbatical because he was feeling both physically and mentally exhausted after years of intense competition and the pressure that comes with being a top athlete.
“He’d been playing professionally from a young age and had participated in multiple World Cups, so he felt the need to step back and take some time for himself. This break allowed him to rest, travel, and ultimately return to the game with a refreshed mindset.”
Christian Pulisic-Landon Donovan Feud – What Next?
The Christian Pulisic-Landon Donovan feud has come at the worst possible time for the USMNT. After their 2-1 friendly loss to Turkey on Saturday, the Yanks head into the Gold Cup in poor form.
However, Mauricio Pochettino’s side does have the chance to put things right if they can beat Switzerland at Geodis Park on Tuesday. Whatever the outcome though, supporters will be wary of the war of words between Pulisic Snr and Donovan.
In terms of what happens next, its vital temperatures are cooled. Donovan has every right to voice his concerns but it really doesn’t help when he has been guilty of skipping international soccer during his playing days.
Milan star Pulisic has remained mute on the matter. But he did like his father’s upload on Instagram but it would be best if the whole situation is quashed and everybody can move on.
Why Is Christian Pulisic Not Playing In The Gold Cup?
In May, head coach Mauricio Pochettino explained Christian Pulisic’s absence from the USMNT Gold Cup roster. The Argentine believes it will benefit the Milan maestro for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Pulisic has spent his entire professional soccer career in Europe. Therefore, he has clocked up thousands of air miles travelling for club competitions as well as the US team.
In 2024-25, Pulisic played a career-high 3,650 minutes. He also registered the most goals (17) in a single domestic campaign and chipped in with 12 assists. Pulisic made a total of 50 appearances in all competitions.
With the above in mind, Pochettino wants ‘Captain America‘ to enjoy a well-earned summer break so he can be in the best possible condition ahead of 2025-26.
How Many Times Have The USMNT Won The Gold Cup?
The USMNT have won the Gold Cup on seven occasions. They are the second most successful nation in the tournament’s history. Only Mexico has more titles (9).
This year, both the US and the Mexicans are the favorites to win the 2025 edition with the best offshore sportsbooks. However, many may favor the Tricolor due to Pulisic’s absence.
Other stars who will be missing for Mauricio Pochettino include Josh Sargent, Antonee Robinson and Yunus Musah. Timothy Weah and Weston McKennie have decided to represent Juventus in the upcoming Club World Cup and also won’t be available.
