Christian Pulisic has not found the net for the USMNT since 2024, extending a troubling trend into a pivotal World Cup cycle. Manager Mauricio Pochettino positioned him centrally during Tuesday's 2-0 defeat to Portugal in Atlanta, part of a broader lineup shuffle that yielded few positives. While his club form at Milan has faltered amid injuries and inefficiency, history suggests he rises for high-stakes international occasions.

Breakout 2024-25 Fuels Expectations

The 2024-25 season marked Pulisic's career peak, with 20 goals and assists in Italy's top division—fourth-best overall—and 27 across all competitions including Champions League and cups. No Milan contributor outperformed him, few in the division matched his impact. A deliberate absence from the Gold Cup provided needed rest after an exhausting schedule, as former USMNT forward Charlie Davies noted for its physical and mental benefits.

Injuries Derail Early 2025-26 Momentum

Under Max Allegri's 3-5-2 setup, Pulisic thrived initially as a second striker, contributing frequently as Milan vied for the title. An October knock against Australia sidelined him for four club fixtures, followed by further muscular issues; from October 14 to February 18, he started seven games and substituted in seven more, netting once in a 3-0 win over Hellas Verona on December 28.

Inefficiency Defines 2026 Start

Early 2026 brought missed chances despite opportunities. Against Parma, three shots yielded none on target in a 1-0 loss. Similar patterns emerged versus Cremonese, Inter, and Lazio, where five shots produced no reward despite strong involvement. Off-field tensions surfaced too, as a refused pass to Rafa Leao sparked dressing-room rumors, though quickly dismissed.

Tactical Risks Fail to Ignite Revival

Pochettino's central deployment against Portugal isolated Pulisic, limiting his roaming style amid options like Folarin Balogun, Ricardo Pepi, and Patrick Agyemang for that role. In 45 minutes, he completed 12 passes, created no chances, took three shots—all off target—and risked ejection after bookings. Such experiments underscore the challenge of reigniting his influence.

Big-Stage Pedigree Offers Hope

Pulisic's record in decisive fixtures endures criticism of inconsistency: goals against Inter and Liverpool, an FA Cup final assist versus Arsenal through midfield penetration. These moments affirm his capacity to deliver when stakes peak, justifying faith that World Cup contributions will define his legacy over current struggles.