Pulisic: Pochettino’s Messi Prediction for USA
- Christian Pulisic has the talent and recognition to be the Lionel Messi of the United States men's national team, according to coach Mauricio Pochettino.
- Pochettino, speaking on the "Unfiltered Soccer" podcast with former USMNT players Landon Donovan and Tim Howard, praised Pulisic's quality and impact for both club and country.
- Pulisic, 26, has scored 32 goals in 76 appearances for the USMNT since his debut in 2016.
Mauricio Pochettino boldly claims Christian Pulisic should be the USMNT‘s Messi, highlighting the winger’s pivotal role and iconic status for the United states. Analyzing Pulisic’s impact with both club and country, Pochettino defends the star’s decision to sit out upcoming friendlies and the Gold Cup, emphasizing the importance of rest. Discover how the coach’s Messi prediction for Pulisic reflects the American star player’s potential and influence. News Directory 3 has the story. Will Pulisic live up to Pochettino’s expectations? Discover what’s next for the USMNT.
Pochettino: Christian pulisic Should Be USMNT’s Messi
Updated June 4, 2025
Christian Pulisic has the talent and recognition to be the Lionel Messi of the United States men’s national team, according to coach Mauricio Pochettino.
Pochettino, speaking on the “Unfiltered Soccer” podcast with former USMNT players Landon Donovan and Tim Howard, praised Pulisic’s quality and impact for both club and country. He acknowledged comparisons to Messi but emphasized Pulisic’s iconic status within the U.S.
Pulisic, 26, has scored 32 goals in 76 appearances for the USMNT since his debut in 2016. He has captained the team and led them to three Concacaf Nations League titles. At the club level,the winger recently completed a strong season with AC Milan,tallying 17 goals and 12 assists.
Despite his key role, Pulisic will miss the upcoming friendlies and Gold Cup. Pochettino supported Pulisic’s decision, stating that they discussed it beforehand. The US Soccer Federation also agreed with the plan to give the USMNT star a rest.
Shaun Clark/ISI Photos/USSF/Getty Images for USSF
“I think in this country, Pulisic should be our Messi, because he’s an iconic player. The kids on the street for sure if you ask one soccer player in this country, it’s Pulisic.”
Mauricio Pochettino
Pochettino stressed the importance of players prioritizing their national teams, drawing comparisons to the dedication shown by stars like Lionel Messi and Neymar.
What’s next
The USMNT will play friendlies against Turkey and Switzerland before the Gold Cup. They are grouped with Haiti, Trinidad and Tobago, and Saudi Arabia in Group D.