Alexi Lalas spoke about Christian Pulisic and his form heading into the World Cup amid recent struggles
USMNT legend Alexi Lalas believes that Christian Pulisic will deliver for the United States at the 2026 World Cup this summer despite missing recent matches for Milan.
The 27-year-old forward hasn’t started for Milan since facing Lecce on January 18 and has missed seven Serie A fixtures in total this season.
Speaking on his State of the Union Podcast, Lalas addressed growing fan anxiety about Pulisic’s effectiveness since the calendar turned to 2026.
“I just remain unconcerned with Christian Pulisic in that I think he’ll be there this summer, and I think that he is going to be the star that we need him to be,” Lalas said. “He has brought it for the national team over the years. I think he will do it again.”
Pulisic remains the USMNT‘s most accomplished player heading into the summer tournament. His experience at elite European clubs and demonstrated ability to perform under pressure make him indispensable to head coach Mauricio Pochettino‘s plans. The question isn’t whether he’ll feature, but whether extended injury absences affect his sharpness when competition begins.
Despite leading Milan in Serie A scoring with eight goals, Pulisic’s inconsistent appearances have created legitimate concerns. Missing matches during the crucial buildup to a home World Cup limits his ability to establish rhythm and match fitness precisely when he needs it most.
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“It has been frustrating, I don’t feel like I’ve played a game this season fully fit.”https://t.co/8lcpeHzdAQ #CFC #FPL
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Contract stalemate fuels Premier League speculation
While Lalas projects confidence about Pulisic‘s World Cup prospects, the forward’s club situation grows increasingly complicated. TEAMtalk reports that intermediaries have confirmed Pulisic is increasingly open to returning to England, with Premier League interest intensifying as his Milan contract situation remains unresolved.
Pulisic has just 18 months remaining on his current deal, with Milan holding an option for one additional year. Despite his outstanding production since arriving from Chelsea in 2023, contract extension talks have failed to gain momentum, frustrating those close to the player.
His numbers justify significant interest from England’s top clubs. Pulisic delivered 20 goal contributions in each of his first two seasons at Milan and has already reached double figures again this term.
Over the past two and a half years, no player in Serie A has produced more combined goals and assists, elevating him into the bracket of Europe’s most dangerous wide forwards.
Multiple Premier League clubs reportedly view Pulisic as an ideal addition given his previous familiarity with English football and proven ability to succeed there. Although Chelsea sold him to Milan after he struggled for consistent opportunities, his Serie A performances have completely altered his stock.