Christian Pulisic hails 'really strong' US squad before 2026 World Cup
Pulisic, a longstanding figure in American soccer, indicated that the squad is well positioned as interest starts to grow for the event set to occur in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
"I think you could say so," Pulisic shared with Reuters when questioned about whether this is the strongest US team he has joined.
"Looking at the players competing at top levels and excelling at their clubs, and I believe without doubt you have a very, very solid group with plenty of depth too," he added.
"Several players who can fill any role. It is a highly capable side."
Pulisic alongside manager Mauricio Pochettino will guide a lineup anticipated to feature other attackers like Folarin Balogun and Tim Weah, central players Weston McKennie and Tyler Adams, backline members Tim Ream and Chris Richards, plus keepers Matt Freese and Matt Turner.
For Pulisic, chatting with Reuters during a collaboration with deodorant brand Degree, the prospect of a World Cup on home soil brings extra drive to the global spectacle.
"A World Cup offers plenty of drive on its own, and hosting it in the US, with my family and nearest friends present, there is simply nothing better," he remarked.
Home advantage
The 27 year old expressed hope that US supporters will provide significant support when the competition kicks off. The US will meet Paraguay on June 12 at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.
"I know the vibe in the venues will be electric," he noted. "We aim to absorb as much of that energy as possible, channel it into drive, and strive to honour the American public."
Pulisic, who has donned the US jersey since his youth, mentioned that donning the national kit holds profound significance.
"Standing for the US and sporting that badge, I never take it for granted," he stated.
"It is something I have done since age 17... I am immensely proud to be American and thankful for all this nation has provided me. I simply wish to repay it all and ideally bring pride to many."
Captain America
As a prominent name in US soccer lore, Pulisic has frequently been tagged with titles like "Captain America" and positioned as the visible emblem of the mens game domestically. Yet he prefers to ignore such labels over welcoming them.
"I would say I mostly block it out," he commented. "It is not a topic I dwell on excessively. I concentrate on my contributions and aiding the team to victory."
He noted that his guidance now involves establishing benchmarks via actions instead of talks.
"I trust that my daily efforts, in practice each day, and my approach to work demonstrate my commitment to the squad and allow me to guide through deeds," he explained.
Pulisic further indicated no sense of obligation to act as the sports ambassador in the US, though he aims to motivate emerging talents.
"My priority is performing my role," he said. "If along the way I motivate a few individuals, that is wonderful. It motivates me further and I aspire to achieve it. However, I sense no compulsion to force it."
With rising hopes for the joint hosts, Pulisic avoided specifying triumph by a set outcome, merely stating the initial aim is group progression followed by tackling matches sequentially.
Nevertheless, his words to fans rang true.
"The squad is solid right now. Fans ought to feel thrilled and prepared to back us."