Christian Pulisic informed of ‘biggest job’ with USMNT as AC Milan star is backed to become World Cup ‘leader’

The 25-year-old forward is already affectionately known as ‘Captain America’ to many, with international expectation having been lumped onto his shoulders from a young age. As one of the most talented players in his generation, Pulisic has starred in Europe for the likes of Borussia Dortmund and Chelsea.

He is a Champions League winner and has made an impressive adjustment to life in Italy following a big-money transfer in 2023. While part of a much bigger picture at club level, Pulisic is expected to lead by example for his country.

Cobi Jones believes Pulisic can handle that pressure heading towards the 2026 World Cup – which will be co-hosted by the United States – with the USMNT legend telling FIFA’s official website: “I'm getting all the highlights from my son, he's always saying, 'Hey, did you see the goal Pulisic scored!?' I'm very impressed with what Christian is doing, scoring goals and playing at a top level. Of course, as the captain, he’s a big player for the US. Not only because he’s a huge talent, but for his experience and leadership abilities. You must have a good group dynamic if you're going to have success. In 1994, by no rights should we have accomplished so much, but it was because we had a great group. In 2002, how did we do so well? It was the same. We had a group that fought together. There are other times when we didn't do so well, and that's usually when the group is separated and there are different dynamics going on. France 1998 was the perfect example [when USA were eliminated in the group stage]. You've got to be united. For Pulisic, bringing the squad together is going to be his biggest job and, with his experience, I’m sure he can be that leader.”

Pulisic is already up to 64 caps for the United States, registering 28 goals along the way, and has plenty to look forward to in 2024 as the USMNT ready themselves for the CONCACAF Nations League finals and a Copa America tournament on home soil.