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Christian Pulisic doesn’t get the benefit of the doubt from anyone.
In perhaps the most important World Cup in United States soccer history, Pulisic ultimately had no impact.
Pulisic was injured in the opening match of the US Men’s National Team, causing him to miss the next match before playing a few minutes in the group stage final.
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Landon Donovan of the USA celebrates victory at the final whistle at the 2010 World Cup. (EMPICS Sport – PA Images via Getty Images)
But Pulisic, the face of American football, disappointed in both knockout stage games and left the Round of 16 match against Belgium after injuring his ankle. After the loss, Pulisic said he can “rest.”
Landon Donovan saw both highs and lows while playing in the World Cup, and while admitting that he “wanted[ed] observation” about his perception of Pulisic, the USMNT legend didn’t hold back much about the criticism he “deserves.”
“At the end of the day, you’re your best player, you’re your star player, and it didn’t happen to him…” Donovan said on his “Unfiltered Soccer” podcast with his former partner Tim Howard. “That’s part and parcel of this role. It’s just disappointing, I’ve been waiting for him for a while … and it didn’t happen.”
Christian Pulisic of the United States looks on during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group D match between Türkiye and USA at Los Angeles Stadium on June 25, 2026 in Inglewood, California. (Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
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“I’m starting to look back, Tim — it’s more than just a trend now. It is,” Donovan continued. “Like, if the games are easy, and it’s a home qualifier, and it’s Jamaica, yes. But in the big moments and in the big games, he’s never done it – I’m not criticizing, I’m just telling the truth. He is who he is right now.”
Donovan was also not happy that Pulisic left the Belgium game.
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“The truth is, he came out of the playoff game at home, his leg is still stuck. Because he had to f-king take me off the field,” said Donovan. “And I would have punched the doctor in the face and said you are not taking me off the field. Put whatever you need to put on me, I will stay on the field.”
Christian Pulisic of the United States leaves the field after the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round Of 16 match between the USA and Belgium at Seattle Stadium on July 6, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)
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Howard was cryptic in his unflattering assessment of Pulisic, saying “he’s a good football player,” but “other than that, you’re going to have to ask me specific questions and I can give you specific answers.”
Pulisic has just one goal in eight World Cup appearances. In Monday’s loss, he lost the ball 11 times in the first half.
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