Christian Pulisic Injury Update: Will He Play Against Australia?
Christian Pulisic’s Injury Status Ahead of USMNT Match vs. Australia
The U.S. men’s national team trained in Irvine, California on Wednesday before traveling to Seattle for their second World Cup match against Australia this Friday. Christian Pulisic remains uncertain for the game, with reports describing his condition as "day to day."
A spokesperson from U.S. Soccer shared that Pulisic completed a modified training session while the rest of the squad practiced fully. The star winger has been working separately as he recovers from an injury sustained during the first match against Paraguay.
Details of Pulisic’s Injury
During the opening game versus Paraguay, Pulisic suffered a kick aggravating a pre-existing left calf issue. Coach Mauricio Pochettino substituted him at halftime for Sebastian Berhalter as a precautionary measure. Although Pulisic missed several full-group sessions this week, teammates like Tyler Adams have expressed confidence in his recovery.
"Christian will be ready, everyone. Let’s relax," Adams said. "I think he picked up a knock a few days before the match and got kicked in the same spot again during the match."
After the Paraguay win, Pulisic told FOX Sports, "I just got a bit of a kick in the first half. I'm really hoping it’s nothing... Taking a little bit of precaution today, but I’m hoping I’ll be fine in the next few days."
Background on Pulisic’s Injury History
The current concern centers on Pulisic's left calf. U.S. Soccer hasn’t provided specifics beyond confirming the issue existed prior to the tournament. Throughout his career, the 27-year-old has dealt with multiple injuries, including a 56-day absence last season with AC Milan due to various ailments. This year, he missed time because of thigh and gluteal muscle strains and hip bursitis, along with other soft-tissue problems.
On Monday, Pochettino noted Pulisic felt "good" briefly before leaving training early. On Tuesday, teammate Tim Weah remarked, "I think he’ll be ready for the game and ready to be with the team, so just praying to God he feels 100% fit. He’ll be needed."
When Might Pulisic Return to Full Action?
Pulisic played only 45 minutes in the opening match. His exact return timeline remains unclear. It’s possible he could play or even start against Australia, but final confirmation is expected after Pochettino’s Thursday press briefing.
On Wednesday, Pulisic trained separately with two trainers while the rest of the squad practiced fully. According to The Athletic, he performed single-leg jumps during a brief media viewing before heading back to the gym.
If he cannot suit up against Australia, Pulisic might return for the final Group D game against Türkiye on June 28 at SoFi Stadium, where the USMNT began their World Cup campaign.
