'There's Drama' - Donovan Reacts To Pulisic's Comments On Mauricio Pochettino Relationship

Landon Donovan believes that even though Christian Pulisic and Mauricio Pochettino spoke privately during the last call-up for the friendlies against South Korea and Japan, there’s still drama. According to Donovan, what Pulisic noted in one interview—saying there isn’t as much drama as people think—doesn’t tell the full story.

While discussing the topic with former USMNT goalkeeper Tim Howard on the Unfiltered Soccer podcast, Donovan pointed to Pulisic’s comments about the situation not being as dramatic as fans and media assume. Still, Donovan admitted he doesn’t buy that explanation.

"Christian, when asked about his relationship with Pochettino, said: ‘We have good conversations. Honestly, probably what you guys experience and what the media sees is not exactly what we experience. [Hope so, things are good]. We spoke, we had a normal camp, and everything is good between us, good between the team. There’s probably not as much drama. 'I thought that was an interesting one—'not as much drama as you guys think', meaning there is drama, I guess," Donovan said.

Donovan believes that, even though the issue was addressed behind closed doors, not everything is smooth between Pulisic and the U.S. coaching staff. Still, both sides seem focused on moving forward—prioritizing the upcoming friendlies and preparing for the 2026 World Cup.