Christian Pulisic: Critics Slammed | USMNT News

Pulisic Defends Gold Cup Decision, Calls Criticism “Way Out of Line”

Milan & USMNT star responds to backlash Over Prioritizing Rest Ahead of World Cup

June 12, 2025 – Christian Pulisic, the star midfielder for AC milan and the United States Men’s National Team, has vehemently defended his decision to skip the upcoming Concacaf Gold Cup, responding to criticism from former USMNT players like Landon Donovan as “way out of line.” Pulisic, speaking on the “Call It What You Want” podcast on the GOLAZO NETWORK, emphasized that his choice was made in consultation with manager Mauricio Pochettino and US Soccer staff, with a clear focus on preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The decision, made after two demanding seasons with AC Milan where he featured in at least 50 matches, was intended to allow Pulisic crucial rest and recovery. This sparked a notable backlash, with some fans and former players questioning his commitment to the national team.Donovan publicly expressed his frustration, stating that players skipping the Gold Cup was “pissing me off.”

Pulisic acknowledged the disappointment, but firmly stood by his reasoning. “You can talk about my performances, whatever you want, but to question my commitment, especially towards the national team, in my opinion that’s way out of line,” he stated. He expressed particular disappointment given his respect for the players voicing criticism,many of whom he idolized growing up.

The USMNT star also revealed a nuance to his initial desire to participate in recent friendlies, followed by a break, but Pochettino preferred a unified roster for both the friendlies and the Gold Cup.

Pulisic’s response highlights the increasing emphasis on player workload management in modern soccer, notably with a major tournament like the World Cup on the horizon. While acknowledging the importance of the Gold Cup, Pulisic and the US Soccer staff clearly prioritized long-term planning and player well-being.

Key Takeaways:

Pulisic defends his decision: He maintains his commitment to the USMNT is unwavering.
Workload Management: The decision was driven by a need for rest after a grueling season with AC Milan.
World Cup Focus: Prioritization of peak fitness for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Response to Criticism: Pulisic directly addressed and refuted claims questioning his dedication.
* Pochettino’s Role: The USMNT manager was involved in the decision-making process.

How does the issue of prioritizing club over national team commitments impact the morale of other USMNT players?

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Pulisic’s Recent Controversies & Backlash

Christian Pulisic, the star winger for AC Milan and the United states Men’s National Team (USMNT), has faced a wave of criticism recently, especially surrounding his decision to opt out of the 2024 Gold Cup. This sparked a public debate and drew sharp reactions from former USMNT players and fans alike. The core of the issue revolves around commitment, prioritization, and perceived loyalty to the national team.

The Gold Cup Opt-Out: A Point of Contention

On May 22nd, it was announced that Pulisic would not participate in the 2024 gold Cup.The stated reason was to allow him rest and recovery after a demanding season with AC Milan. However, this decision was met with important disapproval.Many argued that representing the USMNT should be a priority,especially with critically important World Cup qualifying matches looming. The timing, just before a major tournament, amplified the negative response.

Landon Donovan’s Criticism & the Fallout

Perhaps the most prominent critic has been USMNT legend Landon Donovan. Donovan publicly questioned Pulisic’s commitment, suggesting that prioritizing club commitments over national team duties sends the wrong message. This ignited a feud, with many fans taking sides. Donovan’s comments, made on various media platforms, fueled a broader discussion about the responsibilities of star players to their national teams. The debate centered on whether Pulisic was prioritizing his personal well-being and club career over representing his country.

Analyzing the Arguments: Both Sides of the Coin

While the criticism has been harsh, it’s important to understand the nuances of the situation. Here’s a breakdown of the arguments:

• Critics’ Perspective: Pulisic, as a key player, has a duty to be available for important national team competitions. Opting out sends a negative signal to teammates and fans,and perhaps undermines team morale.
• Pulisic’s Perspective (and Supporters): Players have the right to manage their physical and mental health. A demanding club season can lead to burnout, and prioritizing rest can ultimately benefit both the player and the national team in the long run.

The Impact on USMNT Dynamics

This controversy has undoubtedly impacted the dynamics within the USMNT. It raises questions about leadership, accountability, and the expectations placed on star players.The incident highlights the challenges of balancing club and country commitments in the modern game.It also underscores the importance of clear communication between players, coaches, and the US Soccer Federation.

A Look at Pulisic’s USMNT Career Stats

Despite the recent controversy, Christian Pulisic remains a vital asset to the USMNT.Here’s a snapshot of his key stats (as of June 12,2025):

Statistic	value
Caps (Appearances)