Mauricio Pochettino, the new head coach of the US Men’s National Team (USMNT), recently lauded AC Milan star Christian Pulisic as one of the top offensive talents in world football. However, ahead of the USMNT’s upcoming match against Panama, Pochettino expressed concerns over Pulisic’s workload at Milan, citing potential fatigue as an issue for the national team.
Stellar Form in Serie A
Christian Pulisic has been a standout performer for AC Milan this season, registering five goals and two assists in his first seven Serie A appearances of the 2024-25 campaign. Pochettino was full of admiration for the winger, describing him as a “fantastic player” and “one of the best offensive players in the world.” He emphasized that Pulisic’s talent will be vital in helping both the USMNT and his club achieve their goals in the near future.
Fatigue Concerns for USMNT
While Pulisic’s performances have been crucial for Milan, Pochettino noted that the American international’s relentless playing schedule has led to concerns about his fitness. According to the USMNT coach, Pulisic arrived at the national team camp slightly worn out after an intense start to the season at San Siro. Pochettino remarked that the player has been heavily relied upon by Milan, having played every minute so far this season without rest.
Balancing Club and Country Demands
Pochettino explained that managing Pulisic’s playing time will be crucial for both his club and the national team. He stressed the importance of keeping an open dialogue with Milan to ensure that Pulisic remains in top form. The coach acknowledged that while Pulisic’s contributions are invaluable, it is equally important to protect him from burnout to maintain his peak performance for both club and country. “He needs to be in top condition when we call on him,” Pochettino stated, highlighting the balance between preserving the player’s fitness and maximizing his impact.
