Christian Pulisic remains one of the biggest storylines ahead of the United States’ final Group D match with Turkiye. The USMNT captain suffered a calf injury during the tournament opener against Paraguay and was substituted at halftime.
As a consequence, he also missed the second group-stage match against Australia as Mauricio Pochettino and the medical staff chose not to risk aggravating the injury.
With the United States already qualified for the Round of 32 and guaranteed to finish first in Group D, the coaching staff has little reason to rush Pulisic back into action.
Is Christian Pulisic playing against Turkiye?
Christian Pulisic is not expected to start against Turkiye. After missing the match against Australia because of his calf injury, the USMNT might take a cautious approach with the captain. Since they have already secured both qualification to the Round of 32 and first place in Group D, there is no competitive urgency to risk Pulisic before the knockout stage.
Why isn’t Christian Pulisic starting vs Turkiye?
It would be Mauricio Pochettino’s decision. Rather than rushing him back into the starting lineup, they are focused on having the captain available for the Round of 32.
Could Pulisic play against Turkiye?
Possibly. Head coach Mauricio Pochettino revealed that he will consult with the team’s medical staff before making a final decision. Also, Christian Pulisic said during the week that he was close to a 100 per cent, but didn’t confirm if he will play.
If Pulisic is cleared, the most likely scenario would be a brief appearance off the bench during the second half. The objective would be to help him regain match rhythm without exposing him to unnecessary risk before the knockout rounds.
Will Pulisic be ready for the Round of 32?
That is the expectation. Everything suggests the United States are managing Pulisic’s workload with the knockout stage in mind. If his recovery continues as planned, the USMNT captain should be available when the United States begin their Round of 32 campaign, where every match becomes win-or-go-home.
