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'I Was Ok With It'- U.S. Soccer Legend Defends Christian Pulisic's Gold Cup Decision

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Emmanuel Mendez | Last updated Aug 14, 2025 1:46 PM ET

Christian Pulisic's docuseries, "Pulisic," has revealed new details about the summer that caused controversy and debate across U.S. soccer. Pulisic is seen as the 'face' of the current USMNT, but his absence at the Gold Cup raised questions.

Pulisic confirmed that he chose to rest this summer to avoid injuries and to prepare for the new season with AC Milan. With less than a year to go until the World Cup, Pulisic worries about suffering an injury that could rule him out of the prestigious tournament, which will be played at home.

Pulisic wanted to be a part of the squad of USMNT squad for two friendlies before the Gold Cup, but Mauricio Pochettino didn't allow it. Pulisic's decision not to play at the Gold Cup was criticized by many USMNT legends.

A USMNT legend came out to defend Pulisic and gave his opinion on the player's decision not to play this summer. Tony Meola accepted Pulisic's stance on resting despite the Gold Cup being the last competitive tournament before the World Cup for the USMNT.

Tony Meola Does Not Criticize Christian Pulisic

Former USMNT goalkeeper Tony Meola spoke in Pulisic's docuseries about his former teammates criticizing Christian Pulisic for missing the Gold Cup despite being fit. Meola admits to being surprised by Pulisic's decision not to play in the Gold Cup.

Tony Meola: "I personally, and I know this is probably unpopular within, and I know it is with a bunch of my old teammates, bunch of guys that are pundits now. I was okay with it. Because at some point, a guy needs a rest, right?"

Christian Pulisic directly addresses why he chose to sit out the Concacaf Gold Cup this summer and his reaction to the fallout of that decision pic.twitter.com/g4NDqo1doI
— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) August 14, 2025

Pulisic would've had a short vacation if he played in the Gold Cup and reached the final with the USMNT. AC Milan's first friendly in the summer was on July 23, just two weeks after the Gold Cup Final, which was played on July 6.

The USMNT's Upcoming Friendlies

The USMNT will be back in action in September during the FIFA international break. Team USA will play against Japan and South Korea. In October, the USMNT will also play two friendlies in preparation for the World Cup.

They will take on Ecuador and Australia in October. While the games are anticipated by USMNT fans, many will also wonder who Mauricio Pochettino will call up for the friendly matches. It could be an indicator of how the USMNT World Cup roster will be.

Pulisic is expected to be called up for both international breaks, but if not, then more controversy will arise.

USMNT schedule for the rest of 2025