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‘Unfair’ Christian Pulisic Criticism Angers Former USMNT Teammate
Photo by Omar Vega/USSF/Getty Images

Christian Pulisic’s former USMNT teammate Kellyn Acosta has spoken out in support of the AC Milan star amid intense scrutiny of the forward.

Pulisic was at the center of debate before, during, and after the World Cup, which ended unceremoniously for the host nation. The 28-year-old began the tournament with a calf injury in the opening match against Paraguay. By the end of the World Cup, he had suffered another injury, this time a microfracture in his lower right leg.

The AC Milan forward subsequently faced criticism from Landon Donovan and Carli Lloyd following his remarks about his injury, with critics questioning his commitment to the U.S. national team.

While Pulisic has yet to respond to the criticism himself, Acosta has called out his detractors, including fans and members of the media.

Christian Pulisic Criticism ‘Unfair’: Acosta

Acosta recently appeared on the ‘VAMOS podcast’ with Hérculez Gómez, where he suggested that critics were quick to turn against players rather than support them during difficult periods.

“People are just so fickle. It’s like they love you when you’re at your best and they hate you at your worst, right? We never want to uplift,” he said.

Christian Pulisic during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 match between USA and Bosnia and Herzegovina.Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images

Addressing accusations that Pulisic had quit on the team, the former midfielder strongly criticized the remarks as he believes the criticism amounted to a direct attack on the player’s character, something he personally took issue with.

“I think that’s so harsh. So, so harsh. For a guy that’s done so much for the national team, for people just to turn on him as quickly as they have, and it’s just spreading like wildfire.”

“There’s a difference between saying he’s not performing well and whatnot, but saying that you give up on your team is questioning his character and his love for his teammates, the game, and the national team.”

Acosta further added that Pulisic was being judged incorrectly.

“And I think that gives me a sour taste because I know him personally, and that’s not who he is. And I think he’s judged incorrectly.

“To criticize him at the level that people have, I think that’s crazy unfair.”

Pulisic has since returned from his injury and shown glimpses of his quality under Ruben Amorim, who could help the American rediscover the quality that fans know he is capable of delivering.

Mauricio Pochettino Introduces Wave of Young US Talent

USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino has made several new call-ups, including Cavan Sullivan, Julian Hall, and Adri Mehmeti. The additions have led some fans to believe that Pulisic could face increased competition for his place in the squad.

Although Acosta is excited about the team’s future, he dismissed the suggestion that Pulisic no longer belongs in the squad because of his recent struggles.

“It’s like you get your first Xbox, right? You’re super excited to play. You’re so excited, and the next thing you know, the next thing comes, and you get rid of that. And that’s kind of how we’re treating some of our players.”

“We have a lot to be excited about, don’t get me wrong. The last window, it was exceptional to see some of the guys and the age and a lot of promise.”

“But does it mean that Christian doesn’t belong there, or any of the other guys that weren’t present in camp?” he asked.

Christian Pulisic Faces a Transitional Role at AC Milan

Since Amorim’s arrival at San Siro, Pulisic has seen his playing time decrease compared to last season, although the manager’s tactical experiments may also have contributed to the reduced minutes.

The American has started just two of his five appearances so far, scoring one goal. He also enters the final year of his contract with the Italian club, adding another layer of uncertainty to his situation.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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