Christian Pulisic, a central figure for the United States Men's National Team, faced significant backlash after suggesting he could "get some rest" following the team's elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The AC Milan star's comments after the Round of 16 loss to Belgium drew sharp criticism from prominent US soccer figures, including former World Cup winners Tim Howard and Carli Lloyd.
Pulisic's performance throughout the tournament was scrutinized. Despite re-aggravating a calf injury early on, which caused him to miss significant playing time, his impact on the pitch was considered minimal even when healthy. He later rolled his ankle in the knockout stage match against Belgium, leading to his substitution.
Following the team's defeat, Pulisic stated, "I can get some rest," a remark that quickly ignited debate. USMNT legend Tim Howard, discussing the situation on his "Unfiltered Soccer" podcast with Landon Donovan, advised Pulisic to avoid social media. "I hope for his sake he isn’t on social media for the foreseeable future," Howard said, adding a cryptic note about believing someone when they show you who they are. While acknowledging Pulisic's skill and status as potentially the team's best player, Howard suggested a more direct assessment might be warranted.
Carli Lloyd, a decorated former member of the United States Women's National Team, also voiced her strong disapproval. "You rest when your playing career is over. Period," Lloyd stated, emphasizing a sentiment that rest should be earned after retirement, not immediately following a tournament exit.
This incident follows previous criticism Pulisic faced prior to the World Cup when he characterized the event as "just another big tournament." After the loss to Belgium, Pulisic expressed disappointment in his own performance but also noted that the team "did good things." He reflected, "I felt really good this summer with the guys and I thought my level was high. Yeah, it's disappointing. I didn't quite have the moments I was hoping to and to try to help us to really push and get over this next step of beating a really good team."
Pulisic has scored one goal in nine career World Cup appearances. With the next World Cup scheduled for 2030, he will be 31 years old by then.