Former U.S. Men's National Team (USMNT) goalkeeper Tim Howard has advised Christian Pulisic to disconnect from social media in the wake of criticism following the team's World Cup exit. Pulisic, considered the face of the USMNT, faced scrutiny for his performance in the tournament, particularly after the team's 4-1 loss to Belgium in the Round of 16.
"I hope for his sake he isn’t on social media for the foreseeable future," Howard said on his "Unfiltered Soccer" podcast. He added that Pulisic "deserves a rest" and should "go on holiday," acknowledging the "dark side to fame and celebrity."
Pulisic, 27, recorded one assist during the World Cup and battled a calf injury that sidelined him for a group stage match. He exited the Belgium game in the 59th minute after tweaking his ankle.
While acknowledging that a team effort contributes to losses, Howard suggested that star players are expected to elevate their performance. "To who much is given, much is required. He is the face of this team, he is undoubtedly its best player," Howard stated. "And when that happens, you will receive all of the money and all of the acclaim, and you’ll receive all of the blame. That’s how it works."
Other former players and commentators have also voiced their opinions on Pulisic's World Cup showing. Former U.S. star Carli Lloyd expressed disappointment, while Howard's co-host Landon Donovan remarked that Pulisic "is he who he is." Sports personality Colin Cowherd described Pulisic as a "slight player" who has "always been fragile."
Pulisic's early exit from the match due to injury also drew commentary. Donovan suggested he himself would have needed to be "dragged off the field" to leave a game early.
This marks the third World Cup roster for Pulisic. The USMNT failed to qualify in 2018 and has exited in the Round of 16 in the two tournaments he has participated in.
Howard concluded his assessment by stating, "What I would say about him is when someone tells you or shows you who they are, you believe them. I think he’s a nice footballer. I still think he’s the best player on the team... Ultimately he’s a nice footballer." Pulisic is expected to be 31 for the next World Cup in 2026, an age where some players begin to experience declines in performance, potentially impacting his ability to lead the team beyond the Round of 16.