14th August 2025
August 14 – USMNT stars facing criticism is nothing new, but Christian Pulisic and Timothy Weah are clearly not going to take it lying down.
Two of America’s brightest talents are pushing back fiercely after having their commitment questioned by former national team legends.
In the latest episode of Paramount+’s “Pulisic” documentary, the pair did not hold back. Pulisic, visibly frustrated, took aim at the “cop-out” critiques from ex-players who suggest today’s generation “didn’t want it” or “didn’t have the heart.”
The AC Milan forward said: “The most annoying thing… is when all pundits want to say: ‘They didn’t want it. Back in our day we would fight and die on that field.’”
His team-mate Weah went even further, saying: “Those guys are chasing cheques, and for me… they’re really evil… Those are the same guys that will turn around and shake your hand and try to be friendly.”
It’s a row that has even started to involve the families of USMNT players. Mark Pulisic, Christian’s father, advised former pros to “look in the mirror” before they “start talking s—.” His comment was sparked by criticism of players skipping the Gold Cup from USA icon Landon Donovan.
Those absences were keenly felt by Mauricio Pochettino’s team, which lost in the final to Mexico with key players like Pulisic missing.
With the 2026 World Cup rapidly approaching, there is pressure on everyone associated with the USMNT program to deliver. The stakes have never been higher and neither has the vitriol.