Christian Pulisic, the key player for the U.S. men’s national team, is facing another setback as he is sidelined with bursitis, an inflammation affecting the fluid-filled sacs near his hip. This news comes from AC Milan head coach Massimiliano Allegri, who confirmed that Pulisic will miss the upcoming match against Bologna but remains hopeful for a quick recovery, anticipating that the winger could return to action soon.
Bursitis is typically a manageable condition, but the timing is concerning for both Milan and the USMNT as they prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Pulisic’s absence is particularly felt as Milan competes for crucial points in Serie A, striving to close the gap on league leaders Inter. A win against Bologna would place them just five points behind their rivals.
Pulisic has a well-documented history of injuries that have hampered his career. His tenure at Chelsea was marred by numerous setbacks, including hamstring issues and ankle sprains that often sidelined him for extended periods. After transferring to AC Milan, he managed to enjoy a relatively injury-free period until this season’s hamstring injury, which kept him out for about 25 days.
Pulisic’s injury history casts a shadow over the upcoming World Cup, as the U.S. national team will be counting on his experience and skill to make an impact on home soil. While the team has shown resilience in previous matches without him, the intensity of World Cup competition underscores the necessity for Pulisic’s presence. His recent form has been less than stellar, with a troubling lack of contributions following a strong start to the season.
As he recuperates, the focus will be on how quickly Pulisic can regain his fitness and form, ensuring he is ready to lead the USMNT when the tournament kicks off. The hopes for a successful World Cup campaign may hinge significantly on the health and performance of their talismanic player.