Christian Pulisic sets record straight on 2026 World Cup with USMNT after Gold Cup absence

The United States Men’s National Team recently wrapped up its run in the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup, falling in the final to Mexico. Christian Pulisic was absent from the tournament, but has now shared his mindset heading into the next major challenge: the FIFA World Cup 2026.

In a recent interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Pulisic opened up about his future with AC Milan, outlining his goals for the upcoming Serie A season. That’s particularly notable, given rumors that linked him with a potential move to Al Nassr to join Cristiano Ronaldo.

In that conversation, the American forward made it clear he’s doing everything he can to prepare for the upcoming campaign, in part because of what lies beyond. “It will be a great season and many players will want to give their all because it will end with the World Cup in the USA, Mexico and Canada,” Christian said.

“For me, playing in the World Cup in my country is a dream, and I want to work hard to be ready for the biggest event in world football,” Pulisic added, making clear his desire to represent the United States in that tournament. “I’m thrilled at the thought of being there.”

However, the superstar born in Hershey, Pennsylvania, emphasized that his current focus remains on his club responsibilities: “First, there’s an entire season to play in a Milan shirt. Right now, I’m fully focused on that, even if the thought of the World Cup is in the back of my mind.”

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Why didn’t Pulisic play in the Gold Cup?

Christian Pulisic’s words make it clear that he remains fully committed to the goals of the USMNT, despite sitting out the Gold Cup. The forward opted out of the tournament to prioritize rest over the summer, knowing the demanding schedule ahead.

That decision sparked controversy with coach Mauricio Pochettino, who chose to leave Pulisic out of the pre-tournament friendlies in favor of the squad that would go on to play the Gold Cup. “That’s the coach’s decision,” the player told CBS Sports. “I fully respect that. I didn’t understand it, but it is what it is.”

Days later, Pochettino was asked about those comments and offered a blunt response. “Players don’t need to understand. Players need to listen and to stick with our plan. They cannot dictate the plan,” said Mauricio. “I am the head coach. I am not a mannequin.”

Pulisic remains a key figure for Milan and the USMNT

The fact that Pulisic’s Gold Cup absence became such a talking point — and that speculation around a potential exit from AC Milan gained so much attention — speaks volumes about his importance on the pitch, both at club and international level.

Last season, Pulisic appeared in 50 matches for AC Milan, scoring 17 goals and delivering 12 assists — playing a decisive role for the Italian side. And for the United States, he remains their most influential player, with 32 goals in 78 appearances since his debut in 2016. That places him fifth on the all-time USMNT scoring list.