‘Either fit in or don’t’: Fans deliver brutal reaction after Christian Pulisic is left out of USMNT roster
· Yahoo Sports
Christian Pulisic’s surprise omission from Mauricio Pochettino’s first USMNT roster of the 2030 World Cup cycle has sparked a strong reaction from American soccer fans.
The AC Milan forward has been a regular for the United States for the past decade, but he will not feature in the upcoming exhibition matches against Chile, Peru, Canada and Mexico.
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Pulisic, 28, has 90 caps and 33 international goals and remains the only American to play in and win a UEFA Champions League final. His relationship with Pochettino has reportedly been strained since he skipped the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup.
Photo by John Dorton/USSF/Getty ImagesUSMNT fans split over Pulisic’s omission
Pulisic also suffered a leg injury during the USA’s 4-1 World Cup loss to Belgium and did not score in any of his four appearances at the tournament. Despite that, Pochettino had not previously left out a healthy Pulisic since taking charge two years ago.
Fans were quick to react to the news, with some backing Pochettino’s decision while others questioned leaving such an experienced player out.
One supporter wrote: “I know nothing about soccer but I know Pulisic had his time as the face of US soccer & failed us. Have fun in Italy ya doofus.”
Another added: “Good, it’s about time we start focusing on the team, rather than a player. Behind the scenes, its reported his family/camp decide everything on his behalf and only care about his personal success (that’s their job, no hate). BUT, it’s Poch’s job to only care about USMNT success”
A third fan said: “He was terrible in the world cup, he had one good half against Paraguay. He is always hurt.”
Others called on Pulisic to repair his relationship with the manager, with one writing: “Hey, you either fit in or don’t fit… I would think it would be a priority for CP to work it out with the coach!”
Another supporter argued: “He didn’t play with heart nor did he play well enough for this to be about anything more than that. Theres a lot of time between now and then and I truly hope he finds passion for the USMNT again but the performance and dedication displayed this Cup was low quality/commitment.”
One fan added: “I’m ok with it. Boo-boo or not, didn’t come with a lot of heart or pride. And if he did, or thinks he did, he needs to go watch more history of the USMNT.”
There was also criticism of Pochettino’s decision: “2030? Poch wont even be the manager then. To leave your best player out is just petty…sends the wrong message…self destructive for the USMNT program”
Photo by John Dorton/USSF/Getty ImagesAnother supporter pointed out: “You realize he will be there for nations league right? No need for him in this window let him train at milan…”
And one fan simply said: “Good. About time we have a manager that holds players accountable.”
Pulisic’s absence gives other players an opportunity during the September-October window, with 16-year-old Cavan Sullivan among those called up. The USA will face Peru on September 26 before games against Chile, Mexico and Canada.
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