U.S. Soccer icon shares warning for Christian Pulisic after World Cup flop

Multiple noteworthy individuals associated with United States Soccer have ripped forward Christian Pulisic following his performances and struggles with the United States men's national team during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. 

During the latest edition of his "Unfiltered Soccer" podcast, retired goalkeeper and United States Soccer icon Tim Howard shared some advice and also some warnings for Pulisic as it pertains to the 27-year-old putting the events of the past couple of weeks behind him. 

Christian Pulisic should stay off social media for a time

"I hope for his sake he isn’t on social media for the foreseeable future," Howard said about Pulisic, per Matt Ehalt of the New York Post. "He deserves a rest. Go on holiday. There’s a dark side to fame and celebrity."

For a cover story published in May, Pulisic revealed that he planned "on scoring goals" during the World Cup. He has since been featured in multiple World Cup commercials that continue to run on television following the United States' elimination via a 4-1 loss to Belgium on Monday, but he failed to match such hype with his on-the-pitch performances. 

Specifically, Pulisic was held without a goal through Monday's loss. As Daniel Chavkin of Sporting News shared, Pulisic has now tallied a total of one goal and three assists in eight World Cup appearances. Per ESPN's Jeff Carlisle, Pulisic admitted that he was "disappointed" with his perceived no-show performance against Belgium that ended when he was forced off with a right ankle injury in the 59th minute.

"To who much is given, much is required. He is the face of this team," Howard said of Pulisic. "He is undoubtedly it’s best player. And when that happens, you will receive all of the money and all of the acclaim, and you’ll receive all of the blame. That’s how it works." 

Futures of Christian Pulisic, USMNT up in the air

The identity of the United States' manager beyond the World Cup is unknown. Additionally, one can only guess what Pulisic will be as a footballer and an athlete four years down the road, when he is 31 and the next World Cup is held. 

Pulisic has scored the most career goals by an American in the UEFA Champions League, and he may be the finest club player in United States Soccer history. Such information currently means little to U.S. supporters who expected much more from him this summer. 

"What I would say about him is when someone tells you or shows you who they are, you believe them. I think he’s a nice footballer," Howard added. "I still think he’s the best player on the team. Outside of that, you’d have to ask me very direct questions to which I could give you very direct answers, but ultimately he’s a nice footballer."