US winger Christian Pulisic has fiercely defended his decision to miss the CONCACAF Gold Cup, calling out critics who questioned his national team commitment as “way out of line.”
After a grueling 50-game season with AC Milan, Pulisic stated that prioritizing rest is crucial for him and the team, especially with the 2026 World Cup approaching.
Pulisic’s absence, along with uninjured teammates Yunus Musah and Antonee Robinson, has drawn fire from former USMNT stars like Landon Donovan and Alexi Lalas.
Pulisic expressed disappointment, noting some critics show private support but public condemnation.
“You can talk about my performances, but to question my commitment to the national team, in my opinion that’s way out of line,” Pulisic stated on a CBS Sports podcast.
The controversy comes as the USMNT struggles, having recently lost 4-0 to Switzerland, their fourth straight defeat.
