Christian Pulisic has chosen not to participate in the Gold Cup with the USA this summer in order to properly rest and prepare in the right way for the upcoming season, which will lead into the 2026 World Cup, set to be played in the United States. AC Milan’s number 11 was interviewed by CBS Sports Golazo America and spoke about this topic and more. Here are his statements, as transcribed via Milannews.it.
How do you explain your growing ability to take on more responsibility?
"Even in my last days at Chelsea, I was feeling confident and ready for the next step in my career. I arrived at a club that showed me a lot of trust, and I felt good from the very beginning. I feel like I’m growing in confidence and in all aspects of my game, and that’s what brought me to where I am today."
How difficult was it for you to go through a season full of ups and downs for the team, even though you stood out with your goals and assists? Pulisic said:
"Mentally and physically, it’s always tough. With the number of games we play and everything that happened this year at Milan… I think it’s hard for people on the outside to understand. There’s a lot of pressure on us, especially at a club like Milan when things aren’t going the way they should. We’re expected to win: matches, trophies—and when things don’t go exactly as expected, it can get tough. But I’m grateful to be in this position. Playing for a club like Milan makes me even more determined to help bring the team back to where it belongs. A lot has happened this year, but I’m ready and optimistic for the future."
In the U.S., everyone is wondering why you won’t be with the national team this summer after such a strong season...
"I’m sorry not to be with the team—I always want to be available. But toward the end of the season, my body started speaking to me… So I asked myself: 'What would be the best thing for me to do in order to approach next year in the best possible way, especially since it ends with the World Cup in the U.S.?' Playing more games and then going straight into preseason and pushing through all the way to the World Cup—I don’t think that’s the best option for my body. I would’ve liked to be there at least for the two friendlies, but the national team coaches told me they wanted a single, unified group for both the friendlies and the Gold Cup. I 100% respect their decision, even if I don’t completely understand it. But that’s how it went, and I had to make the best decision for myself—and ultimately for my team too. Even if someone (referring to Donovan, who strongly criticized the choice) doesn’t see it that way."
After all the negative comments that followed your decision, do you regret it or do you still think it was the right choice?
"I don’t regret my decision—I believe that, based on how I feel now, it was the best choice. I’m getting back to training this week and I’m really excited. I want to work on myself, and I know this will put me in the best possible position when next season starts."
How are you feeling now? Pulisic replied:
"I feel great. I’ll be in top shape when the new season begins. You’ll see how much desire I have—more than ever."
When you’re on vacation like now, do you completely disconnect from football, or do you still watch games?
"Physically, I’m obviously 'on break,' but mentally, I’m here. I’m the national team’s biggest fan—I always watch the U.S. guys’ matches."
At Milan, you’ll have a new coach, Massimiliano Allegri, who previously coached Juventus. Has any of your national teammates told you about him? Pulisic replied:
"I spoke with Weston (McKennie) recently, and he only had positive things to say. He told me Allegri is a fun guy, loves to joke around, very passionate… I told him: 'Like all Italians, right?' (laughs). I’m looking forward to meeting him and the staff—I think he’s the right choice."
