FAYETTEVILLE, Ga. — Christian Pulisic, currently experiencing the longest goal drought of his career, remains optimistic that he will find the back of the net during the World Cup.
“I’ve been through slumps like this before,” Pulisic stated on Saturday, just a day ahead of the United States‘ upcoming warm-up match against Senegal.
“Periods like this happen, and sometimes all it takes is one goal—even if it bounces in off your knee—for everything else to start coming together.”
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Pulisic started the season strong with AC Milan, scoring 10 goals in his first 15 matches. However, following December 28, he has gone 19 matches without finding the net, including eight games for the U.S. since November 2024.
“I truly believe he will score in the World Cup,” said coach Mauricio Pochettino on Friday. “He has a great attitude and commitment. He’s working hard to regain his best form, and I’m confident he will succeed.”
The 27-year-old forward from Hershey, Pennsylvania, has netted 32 goals in 84 international appearances. His crucial goal in the 1-0 victory against Iran during the 2022 World Cup helped secure the U.S. a place in the round of 16.
Pulisic boasts the most international experience on the American roster and is the sole player left from the team that suffered a loss to Trinidad and Tobago in 2017, ending a streak of seven consecutive World Cup appearances for the U.S. He is one of 13 players returning from the 2022 squad.
“The guys have gained a lot of experience both at the club and international level,” Pulisic said. “Going through the last World Cup together, achieving good performances, and then facing a tough exit helps us grow and learn.”
During the 2022 World Cup, Pulisic sustained an injury while scoring against Iran but managed to return for the 3-1 defeat to the Netherlands in the round of 16.
“This time around, most of the players are entering the World Cup feeling more relaxed and ready for the big moments,” he said. “Every game and every crucial moment is a bit easier, and we feel more comfortable heading into it.”
AC Milan ended the Serie A season poorly, winning just two of their last eight matches, missing out on Champions League qualification, leading to the dismissals of coach Massimiliano Allegri and CEO Giorgio Furlani.
“I don’t blame anyone or focus on finding faults,” Pulisic remarked. “There were certainly moments when I could have performed better, and it was a challenging time for both our team and me. That’s what it ultimately boils down to.
“I’ve maintained my training routine and my approach to preparation, continuing to strive for improvement every day. That’s why I can remain positive, despite my disappointment, and look ahead to what lies ahead.”
The match against Senegal, currently ranked 14th, and another friendly against the 10th-ranked Germany on June 6 will be the last opportunities for the 16th-ranked U.S. before their World Cup opener on June 12 against No. 40 Paraguay. Defender Chris Richards will be unavailable for Sunday’s match as he continues to recover from two torn ankle ligaments.
“I’m sure we’ll test a few things and make some adjustments,” Pulisic said. “It might not reflect our final lineup for the actual games.”
In their last gatherings in March, the U.S. lost 5-2 to Belgium and 2-0 to Portugal.
“The goal is to build some rhythm and confidence with the team as we head into the tournament,” Pulisic said. “Facing two strong opponents gives us a great chance to test ourselves before the World Cup. Of course, we aim to achieve positive results, but above all, it’s about building confidence.”