Christian Pulisic injury update: The USMNT captain is facing a fresh fitness battle that has sent ripples of concern through both the AC Milan camp and the United States Men’s National Team headquarters. Just months ahead of the 2026 World Cup on home soil, Pulisic has been sidelined with a recurring case of bursitis, forcing him to miss AC Milan’s recent 3-0 victory over Bologna. With USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino emphasizing the critical need for consistency, this latest setback places the American star under intense scrutiny as the countdown to the March international window begins.
Bursitis Sidelining Pulisic: The Latest AC Milan News
The alarm was sounded earlier this week when reports from Milanello confirmed that Christian Pulisic would not travel for the Serie A clash against Bologna. The diagnosis—hip bursitis—is an inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints, a condition often caused by overuse or repetitive stress. While AC Milan managed a comfortable victory without their winger, the recurring nature of the issue is the primary source of anxiety.
According to the latest Pulisic fitness report, the timing of the injury has coincided with a peculiar scheduling quirk in the Italian football calendar. Due to the 2026 Winter Olympics opening ceremony taking place at the San Siro, Milan’s scheduled fixture against Como has been postponed to February 18. This has inadvertently gifted Pulisic a crucial "strategic pause"—a roughly 20-day recovery window that medical staff hope will allow him to reset completely before the Rossoneri face Pisa on February 13.
The "Blessing in Disguise" for AC Milan
For AC Milan manager Massimiliano Allegri (or the current managing staff), this break is a luxury. Instead of rushing Pulisic back for a midweek fixture, the club can focus on therapy and load management. Reports from Italy suggest the club is optimistic he will return to full training by next week, aiming for a starting spot in the Friday night clash against Pisa. However, the recurring theme of minor injuries interrupting his rhythm remains a major talking point.
Mauricio Pochettino Sends Stark Message on Consistency
While AC Milan manages the day-to-day, Mauricio Pochettino’s USMNT coach tenure is defined by his preparation for the World Cup, and he hasn't shied away from addressing his captain's availability. Speaking on the situation, Pochettino expressed a mix of support and urgency regarding Pulisic's ability to stay on the pitch.
"What I'm seeing is that Christian is playing, then not playing, then on the bench," Pochettino noted in recent comments surrounding the injury news. "Of course, he's suffering to be consistent. The hope is that Christian can be consistent and play in a regular way. He's an important player that we wish could be fit, first for March, and then, like all players, will be fit and available for selection."
This statement underscores a shift in tone. It is no longer just about talent; it is about reliability. As American soccer players abroad navigate grueling European schedules, Pochettino is signaling that availability is the best ability, especially for a team leader expected to carry the nation's hopes in 2026.
High Stakes for USMNT March Friendlies
The urgency of this Christian Pulisic injury update is amplified by the looming international schedule. The United States is set to face top-tier opposition in the USMNT March friendlies, with matches scheduled against European powerhouses Belgium (March 28) and Portugal (March 31) at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. These fixtures are not merely exhibition games; they are vital stress tests for the World Cup squad.
If Pulisic cannot shake off this bout of bursitis and find a rhythm with AC Milan in the next month, he risks entering this crucial camp underprepared or, worse, unavailable. Missing these matches would deny Pochettino the chance to build his attack around his most potent weapon against elite defenses—an opportunity the team cannot afford to squander less than four months before the World Cup kicks off.
The Road to the 2026 World Cup
As the face of the USMNT 2026 World Cup campaign, Pulisic carries a burden heavier than most. His form at AC Milan has been generally excellent when he plays, but the "when" is becoming too sporadic for comfort. This injury scare serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of World Cup dreams.
For now, all eyes are on the San Siro training grounds. Will the 20-day rest period be the cure-all Pulisic needs, or is this the beginning of a frantic race for fitness? American fans, AC Milan supporters, and Mauricio Pochettino are all waiting for the answer, hoping their "Captain America" can return to the field and stay there.
