The United States Men’s National Team is all set to attempt to defend their title at the 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup. However, many people are perplexed as to why Christian Pulisic is not playing for his country. 

Only five members from the recent CONCACAF league will be partaking in the tournament, as high hopes are placed on U.S. head coach B.J. Callaghan to lead his team to yet another Gold Cup victory.

Recently, the USMNT released information about its coaching staff for upcoming matches, along with Oulisic’s absence from the Gold Cup. Read below to know why! 

Why Is Christian Pulisic Not Playing in the Gold Cup?

To give the Chelsea winger time to relax and heal following a grueling season that includes his participation in the Qatar 2022 World Cup, the decision was taken to leave Pulisic off the United States Men’s National Team for the 2023 Concacaf Gold Cup. 

Pulisic’s absence from the Gold Cup further ensures that his health and fitness are prioritized. The 24-year-old, who has been actively participating in international and club, will be able to stay healthy and prepare for upcoming international events. It will also give Pulisic the chance to rehabilitate, both physically and emotionally.

Pulisic, Folarin Balogun, Gio Reyna, Sergino Dest, Weston McKennie, and other big stars will also miss out on the 2023 Gold Cup and be preoccupied with preseason training with their clubs. 

Will Christian Pulisic Transfer?

Another thing that’s making the headlines is Chelsea receiving offers from AC Milan and Lyon for Pulisic. After four dismal seasons at Stamford Bridge, the 24-year-old has just one year remaining on his contract and is prepared to quit Chelsea.

After spending £17 million to get Ruben Loftus-Cheek from Chelsea, Milan has made a preliminary offer of £12 million for Pulisic and won’t be budging on their deal. On the other hand, Lyon has offered £21 million along with several advantageous add-ons, such as a sell-on option.

Clubs like Napoli, Juventus, West Ham, and Crystal Palace have also shown interest in signing Pulisic. Some teams are looking to bolster their roster with an American star before the 2026 World Cup. 

Did Christian Pulisic Play In the 2019 Gold Cup?

Pulisic, alongside Adams and McKennie, participated in the 2019 Concacaf Gold Cup as the tournament, unline this year, kick-started a month earlier. Pulisic, however, came across as the new face of the American men’s national team and took on the responsibility of trying to guide the Stars and Stripes to a seventh Gold Cup victory. 

Pulisic was also awarded the young player award that tournament after a fantastic tournament in which the winger proved to be the game’s champion. 

The U.S. Men’s National Team will play Trinidad and Tobago on Sunday, July 2, to finish Group A play at the 2023 Concacaf Gold Cup.

Are you discouraged with Pulisic’s absence or excited to see other young talents step up their games? 

Do you think other young talents like Daryl Dike, Matthew Hoppe, and Sam Vines will live up to their hopes? 

How excited are you to see their magic on the big stage? Do let us know below!