COMMERCE CITY, CO – Sept. 26, 2023 – U.S. Men’s National Team captain Christian Pulisic sustained a hamstring injury during Tuesday night’s amiable against Australia at dick’s Sporting goods Park, prompting concern from coach Mauricio Pochettino. Pulisic, currently leading Serie A in goals, was forced to leave the match in the 26th minute after initially playing through discomfort following a tackle in the 15th minute.
The injury occurred after a challenge from Australian defender Jason Geria. Pulisic initially stayed down for approximately 30 seconds, clutching his right ankle, before returning to play. He was then tackled from behind by Geria in the 26th minute,remaining on the ground for two minutes before being attended to by USMNT medical staff adn ultimately substituted for Diego Luna.
“I think he felt something in his hamstring,” Pochettino said after the match. “But tomorrow he will fly to Italy, tonight we will assess, and we will see. We cannot say anything at the moment.”
Pulisic visibly expressed frustration as he left the field, hunched over and receiving consolation from teammate Matt Turner. He later applauded a goal scored by Haji Wright from the bench before heading to the locker room with medical staff.
Midfielder Cristian Roldan expressed support for Pulisic, stating, “It was disappointing to see him leave with a hamstring injury… What we want to see out of him is to get consistent games and continue in a great rhythm so that he gets to the world Cup in a good spot.I’ve consoled him already. I want him to feel that we’re there for him,and it’s really notable for him to now start the recovery process and hopefully get back onto the pitch again.”
Pulisic will return to AC Milan this week, with his availability for Sunday’s Serie A match against Fiorentina currently uncertain.
