The American soccer player Christian Pulisic has downplayed the controversy that arose between him and the national team coach, Mauricio Pochettino, assuring that their relationship is good. After two long seasons with AC Milan, Pulisic decided to rest and not participate in the CONCACAF Gold Cup. Although he offered to play in a couple of friendlies before the tournament, Pochettino rejected the proposal to keep the team united. Pulisic returned to the national team this month and started in two friendlies, assisting in the second goal of the 2-0 victory against Japan.
The winger, who will turn 27 on September 18, debuted with the national team in 2016 and has 32 goals in 80 international appearances. He scored the only goal for the United States in Trinidad on the night the Americans failed to qualify for the 2018 tournament and also scored in the 1-0 victory over Iran at the 2022 World Cup.We have good conversations. Honestly, probably what you guys experience and what the media sees is not exactly what we experience. Things are good. We talk. We had a normal camp and everything is fine between us, fine between the team.
Christian Pulisic
In June, Pochettino explained that he would not accept Pulisic for the friendlies against Turkey and Switzerland, stating: “I am the head coach. I am not a dummy.” Pochettino stated that the issue is now in the past and it’s time to look ahead. He acknowledged that both may have made mistakes in interpreting the situation, but emphasized the importance of being intelligent and moving forward. Pulisic noted that, despite not spending time together daily, the camps are crucial for getting to know each other, learning, and helping each other to achieve victories.I love this team. It’s everything to me. I’ve been here for quite a while. I’m getting to know some new players, joining some old players. Even seeing Cristian Roldan again, it’s great for me.
Christian Pulisic
