Christian Pulisic is ‘evolving’ as USMNT manager Mauricio Pochettino weighs options ahead of Australia match

As the U.S. men’s national soccer team looks to build on its emphatic 4-1 victory over Paraguay when it faces Australia on Friday, the biggest question surrounding the Americans is whether “Captain America” will be on the pitch at Lumen Field in Seattle.

Christian Pulisic’s injury status has loomed large over this team despite their strong start on home soil for the tournament. Pulisic, who had an assist in the win over Paraguay, suffered a calf injury that led to him being subbed out after the first half last week.

USMNT manager Mauricio Pochettino was asked once again about Christian Pulisic’s status ahead of Friday’s match, but he offered little insight into the condition of the star’s left calf.

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“He’s evolving,” Pochettino responded, per the New York Post. “He’s much better from Friday. We’ll see.

“I think at the moment, we think if he’s not available for tomorrow, he’ll be available for the next game.”

Pochettino added that Pulisic was “doing a massive effort trying to be ready,” understanding that the U.S. star wants to be out on the pitch with the rest of his teammates. He will meet with the training staff on Thursday night to discuss Pulisic’s status.

“I think for every player that loves his country, it’s an amazing opportunity to enjoy and help the team win games,” he said. “When this type of thing happens, always it’s painful, but I think Christian is strong, with a great mentality, and doing a fantastic effort to try to be ready.”

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During the team’s practice on Thursday, Pulisic did much of what he’s been seen doing this week – performing a modified training session and not participating with the rest of the team during the media portion.

Pochettino wouldn’t say who would replace Pulisic if he’s unable to play against Australia on Friday, although Malik Tillman shifted to the left wing after Pulisic exited against Paraguay, while Sebastian Berhalter moved into the midfield role in the second half.

“I will tell tomorrow if that is the situation,” Pochettino said. “At the moment, we are evaluating all the possibilities just in case. And then we will decide when we have the confirmation in one or another direction tonight.”

There’s no doubt Pulisic playing would give the Americans their best chance of defeating Australia, but fellow star Weston McKennie gave a glimpse at the team’s thought process.

“Either way, just trying to give good spirits and hopefully he can be there tomorrow,” McKennie said. “I know he really wants to be, and he’s doing everything that he can, and the staff is doing everything that they can as well. But that’s also another question that’s better to ask him rather than me. I’m in my own la-la land.” 

With Australia defeating Türkiye in its first World Cup match, this bout between these two teams will determine who takes sole possession of first place in Group D.

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