Christian Pulisic is not getting the benefit of the doubt from anyone.In perhaps the most important World Cup in the history of soccer in the United States, Pulisic ultimately did not make an impact.Pulisic got hurt in the U.S.Men's National Team's opener, causing him to miss its next game before playing limited minutes in the group stage finale.CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COMUSA's Landon Donovan celebrates victory at the final whistle at the 2010 World Cup.
(EMPICS Sport - PA Images via Getty Images)But Pulisic, the face of U.S.Soccer, disappointed in both knockout-stage games and left the Round of 16 match against Belgium after an ankle injury.
After the loss, Pulisic said he can "rest."Landon Donovan saw both the highs and lows during his World Cup career, and while he admitted he "want[ed] to be careful" regarding his observation about Pulisic, the USMNT legend did not hold back much about the criticism he "deserves.""In the end, he’s your best player, he’s your star player, and it just didn’t happen for him..." Donovan said on his "Unfiltered Soccer" podcast with former teammate Tim Howard."That’s part and parcel with this role.
It’s just disappointing, I was waiting for a moment for him … and it just didn’t happen."Christian Pulisic of the United States looks on during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group D match between Türkiye and USA at Los Angeles Stadium on June 25, 2026 in Inglewood, California.(Fran Santiago/Getty Images)TAYLOR TWELLMAN GOES OFF ON TEAM USA AFTER DISASTROUS 4-1 LOSS TO BELGIUM: 'CAN'T MISS FUNDAMENTALS'"I’m starting to look back, Tim — it’s more than just a trend now.
It is," Donovan continued."Like, when the games are easy, and it’s a home qualifier, and it’s Jamaica, yes.
But in the big moments and the big games, he just hasn’t — I’m not criticizing, I’m just saying it factually.He is who he is at this point."Donovan also was not thrilled that Pulisic left the Belgium game.Follow Fox ...