Christian Pulisic Suffers Hamstring Injury in USMNT Friendly
Table of Contents
A low-grade hamstring tear will sideline the star AC Milan winger for at least ten days, potentially impacting both club and international commitments. The injury occurred during a 2-1 victory for the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) against Australia on Tuesday.
AC Milan confirmed on Friday that Christian Pulisic sustained the injury while representing the USMNT in a friendly match. “An MRI scan performed today revealed a low-grade tear in his right hamstring,” the club stated, adding that the player “will be reevaluated in approximately 10 days.”
Impact on AC Milan’s Serie A Campaign
Pulisic has been a key player for AC Milan this season, currently sitting third in Serie A. The timing of the injury is particularly unfortunate as Milan prepares for a crucial city derby against Inter Milan on November 23. A return for that high-profile match is being targeted, though dependent on his recovery progress.
The club anticipates a recovery timeline of as few as three weeks for injuries of this nature, offering a glimmer of hope for Pulisic’s availability before the end of November.
USMNT Preparations for Expanded World Cup
The injury also casts a shadow over the USMNT’s preparations for upcoming friendlies and, more importantly, the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The United States will face Paraguay on November 15 and Uruguay on November 18, both teams having qualified for the expanded 48-team tournament.
The USMNT is co-hosting the 2026 World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico, raising the stakes for a strong performance. The team’s competitive schedule begins with their World Cup opener on June 12, 2026, at SoFi Stadium near Los Angeles. The identity of their opponent will be revealed at the tournament draw on December 5 in Washington D.C.
Pulisic appeared to overstretch his right leg during the first half of the match against Australia, played at the Colorado Rapids’ stadium. The injury underscores the risks inherent in international friendlies, even as they serve a vital purpose in team building and preparation.
.
The USMNT will need to assess its options and potentially adjust its tactical approach in Pulisic’s absence, particularly with crucial friendlies and the looming World Cup on the horizon.
