Alarm over Pulisic ahead of World Cup

Christian Pulisic is expected to be the star who carries the United States at the World Cup in North America. That pressure may be weighing heavily on the ‘Captain America’ of the Star-Spangled Banner’s golden generation.

Alarm bells are ringing just over three months before the tournament. Pulisic is arguably going through one of the most difficult spells of his career. He has not scored in three months and has gone eleven Serie A matches without a goal or assist.

This Sunday, Massimiliano Allegri once again placed his trust in the United States’ leading scorer. Once again, however, Pulisic struggled and was substituted in the 78th minute, visibly frustrated as his barren run continued, threatening to affect his form ahead of the World Cup.

Rafael Leão has experienced the opposite trajectory, scoring four goals and providing one assist in the first two months of the year. He has also found a strong partnership with Christopher Nkunku in attack.

One positive for Pulisic is that Allegri has maintained his confidence in him. When asked about the American, the coach said, “He played well. He’s getting back into form.”

Despite Pulisic’s goal drought at AC Milan, former United States internationals Tim Howard and Landon Donovan have not sounded any alarms as the team prepares for the World Cup.

Even though Mauricio Pochettino described Pulisic as “a talented player who can help us win” and added in an interview with Donovan a few months ago that “Pulisic should be our Messi”, Howard offered a more measured view.

“He’s an elite player, but he’s not Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo. They’re the only ones who score 50 goals every year for a decade and a half. Everyone else, even the best, goes through slumps,” Howard said.

Donovan added: “That tells you how good Pulisic is. You’re so used to seeing him on the scoresheet that when he stops, it becomes noticeable.” He also agreed with Howard that Pulisic remains the best player in the U.S. squad.

Another player causing concern is Álex Zendejas, who for the third consecutive week missed a match for Club América. Ongoing injury issues have prevented him from achieving the consistency he needs.

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