Mauricio Pochettino has yet to engage in a conversation with Christian Pulisic following a tumultuous summer for the U.S. men’s national team. However, the head coach is keen on moving forward, indicating a desire to leave past issues behind.
Pochettino recently included Pulisic in the squad for upcoming friendlies against South Korea and Japan. This selection marks an opportunity for the AC Milan striker to reestablish his position within the team after opting out of participation in the Gold Cup.
The decision to sit out was influenced by Pulisic’s feelings of fatigue after an extensive campaign with Milan. Notably, he had expressed a wish to compete in pre-Gold Cup friendlies against Turkey and Switzerland, which Pochettino declined, a decision that the 26-year-old admitted he “didn’t understand.”
Pochettino responded to the situation by emphasizing his authority in team selections, stating, “I am the head coach. I am not a mannequin.” This statement reflects his intent to maintain control over the roster choices.
Although Pochettino has not yet spoken directly to Pulisic to address the situation, he reiterated his commitment to moving past the events of the summer. After announcing his roster, Pulisic echoed this sentiment, expressing a desire to focus on the future. “I think everything is behind us now; we need to look forward,” he said.
Pochettino elaborated on his plans for Pulisic, mentioning that the goal is to see him in camp and ensure he arrives in good form. The forward has had a productive preseason with Milan and is poised to make a significant impact.
Both parties are optimistic about Pulisic’s readiness. He has already participated in both of Milan’s opening regular-season matches, contributing a goal in a cup victory over Bari. However, he also faced disappointment in a surprise loss against Cremonese, marking the start of the Serie A season.
Pochettino believes that Pulisic’s summer break and fruitful preseason position him well to contribute effectively for the USMNT in upcoming matches. “Christian had the possibility to have a good rest in summer and then start the preseason and the season,” Pochettino acknowledged. “I think he’s in a condition to come to camp with a fresh and competitive spirit.”
In the end, both Mauricio Pochettino and Christian Pulisic are eager to shift focus towards the upcoming challenges, hoping to channel their experiences into success on the field.
