Christian Pulisic's status questionable for friendly vs. Ecuador

Field Level Media|published: Thu 9th October, 21:17 2025

Sep 9, 2025; Columbus, Ohio, USA; US Men's National Team forward Alejandro Zendejas (17) celebrates his goal with Christian Pulisic (10) during the first half against Japan at Lower.com Field. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images

United States star midfielder Christian Pulisic missed Thursday's training session and is questionable to play in a friendly vs. Ecuador on Friday in Austin, Texas.

"I need to communicate that we have some issues in some players, like Christian, who didn't train today," head coach Mauricio Pochettino said, not specifying if Pulisic's absence was due to injury. "We need to assess tomorrow (if) they can be available or not."

Pulisic, 27, was off to a brilliant start for AC Milan in Italy's Serie A League. He earned September's Player of the Month award, scoring three goals and adding two assists. AC Milan is off to a 4-1-1 start.

Pulisic did not play in the 2025 Gold Cup but returned and contributed an assist as the USMNT defeated Japan 2-0 last month.

In addition to Pulisic, Pochettino may be without left back Antonee Robinson (knee) and wing Alejandro Zendejas for Friday's match. None of the trio trained on Thursday.

Pochettino indicated that roster spots are still very much up for grabs for the final team roster, which will take the field for the 2026 World Cup.

"I promise you, no one is sure that he's going to be on the roster of the World Cup 2026," said Pochettino.

After facing Ecuador, the team welcomes Australia for a friendly in Colorado on Oct. 14.

--Field Level Media

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