Christian Pulisic responds after “disaster” comments caught in new documentary

A new documentary series released this week follows Christian Pulisic as he embarks on a new challenge with AC Milan while dealing with the pressure as the face of USMNT.

The first episode was available to stream on Monday, December 9 and the remaining two episodes will go live in January.

Episode one features the fall-out from the summer’s drab USMNT performance at Copa América. The South American tournament was expanded to cover North and Central America and the US were given hosting duties, making it a key staging post ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The US team did not live up to expectations.

A disappointing 2-1 group stage defeat to Panama saw USMNT fall at the first hurdle in front of home support. In the documentary Pulisic is seen discussing the tournament with former AC Milan player Zlatan Ibrahimovic, describe it at a “disaster at times” for the US team.

In an interview with The Athletic Pulisic sought to clarify those comments, explaining that he had been caught up in the emotions of that chastening early exit.

“It was tough to lose and to go out in the way that we did — just a really unfortunate second game [against Panama] that we like to think we should have won. That put us in a really tough spot. The conditions as well can be tough in those games against these types of teams with the fields and all those things. It was just a quick statement. It’s not like the whole thing was a disaster. I enjoyed the experience a lot as well."

US home support breeds optimism for 2026

The on-field showing from USMNT was underwhelming and quickly brought about the end of head coach Gregg Berhalter. The organisation, too, was questioned with a 82-minute delay to the final between Argentina and Colombia when a number of ticketless supporters forced their way into the stadium.

Nevertheless, that did serve to prove that there is a real appetite for soccer in the United States, something that Pulisic took as a positive sign.

“You could see the hype around the tournament. It was extremely exciting. You could see in that final, there were people coming in through the vents and it was all kinds of madness.”

“Of course, we wish we could do better. We want to be there to have the American people behind us. Trust me, no one wants it as bad as I do. And it sucked that we couldn’t deliver. That’s why it was just so disappointing for us. The more success you have, the more your country is going to get behind you.”

With former Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea head coach Mauricio Pochettino now in charge there is renewed optimism around the team. But the new man has just 18 months until the 2026 World Cup to blend a talented but unproven group of players into a team that can fly the flag for ‘soccer’ against the rest of the world. Pulisic, undoubtedly, will be a key component in any USMNT success in the coming years.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.