Pulisic Rested by US National Team Ahead of Mexico Friendly
Christian Pulisic Rested by US National Team Ahead of Mexico Friendly
Christian Pulisic, the star striker for AC Milan and the United States national team, has been rested ahead of Tuesday’s friendly against Mexico in Guadalajara. The decision was announced by US Soccer on Sunday, citing the need to manage Pulisic’s workload after a busy period for both club and country.
Pulisic played a pivotal role in the United States’ 2-0 victory over Panama on Saturday in Austin, Texas. He set up the first American goal, marking a successful debut for new coach Mauricio Pochettino. However, the 26-year-old winger has accumulated a significant number of minutes in recent weeks, prompting the decision to release him back to AC Milan.
In addition to Pulisic, four other players have been sent back to their clubs due to minor injuries. Marlon Fossey, Weston McKennie, Ricardo Pepi, and Zack Steffen will undergo evaluation and treatment before rejoining the national team.
“As we have said, we are always going to make decisions that are in the best interest of our players and respect the relationship we have with their clubs,” said Pochettino.
The United States will not add any additional players to their roster before Tuesday’s match against Mexico. The rivalry between the two nations is one of the most intense in international soccer, and the friendly is expected to draw a large crowd in Guadalajara.
Pulisic’s absence will be a blow to the United States, but Pochettino has a number of talented players at his disposal. The team will be looking to build on their victory over Panama and continue their preparations for the upcoming CONCACAF Nations League and Gold Cup tournaments.