- Both players acknowledge feeling misunderstood
- Pulisic specifically addresses criticisms from ex-players
- Documentary captures behind-the-scenes reactions
Christian Pulisic has hit back at criticism from former U.S. men’s وطني team players, saying recent commentary about his commitment has crossed a line.
“I’d say the most annoying thing, and for me the biggest cop out of all time is when, especially you know all pundits want to say, you know, they didn’t want it,” Pulisic said in the clip posted by CBS Sports Golazo. “They didn’t have the heart, you know, back in our day, we would fight and we would die on that field.”
In newly released episodes of the PULISIC documentary series, the ميلان winger addressed what he sees as unnecessarily harsh remarks from some of the country’s past stars. Pulisic specifically pointed to recent television analysis questioning his dedication after missing this summer’s national team tournaments, calling the scrutiny unwarranted.
His teammate Tim Weah echoed the sentiment, noting that while he respects the accomplishments of those who came before, the tone of certain critiques can feel overly negative. Both players suggested that the current generation’s efforts deserve more measured and constructive feedback, particularly from those who understand the pressures of representing the U.S. on the world stage.
“I think those guys are chasing checks,” Weah said in a clip posted by CBS Sports Golazo. “And for me, I just feel like they’re really equal, honestly, because they’ve been players and they know it’s like when you’re getting bashed and those are the same guys, that’ll turn around and shake your hand and try to be friendly with you at the end of the day.”
The frank discussion highlights the evolving relationship between current USMNT players and the previous generation that helped establish American soccer’s foundation. Pulisic and Weah represent a generation of American players facing unprecedented scrutiny while simultaneously achieving club success beyond what was possible for their predecessors.
Both Pulisic and Weah will return to their respective clubs as the new season approaches with an eye on making the USMNT roster cut for the September international friendlies. Mauricio Pochettino’s side will face South Korea و Japan in their first international games since the Gold Cup final loss.
