The United States men's national team is one win away from securing a spot in the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
After opening the tournament with an impressive 4-1 victory over Paraguay, the USMNT returned to training Monday in Irvine, California, ahead of Friday's massive Group D showdown against Australia.
However, one notable absence quickly grabbed attention.
According to multiple reports from training, including U.S. soccer insider Tom Bogert, Christian Pulisic did not participate in full team activities. Instead, the USMNT star was limited to a modified training session that included individual work in the gym before moving to separate on-field exercises.
Given Pulisic's importance to Mauricio Pochettino's squad, the decision immediately raised concerns ahead of one of the biggest matches of the group stage.
Pulisic Continues Individual Recovery Work
Pulisic was substituted at halftime during the United States' victory over Paraguay after taking a kick to the back of his leg.
The injury initially occurred during training before the tournament opener, and Pulisic later revealed he was struck in the same area again during the first half against Paraguay.
Monday's modified session included individual work with members of the U.S. performance staff while the rest of the squad trained together.
Despite the precautionary approach, teammates downplayed any fears of a serious injury.
"Christian will be ready. Everyone, let's relax," midfielder Tyler Adams told reporters.
Forward Haji Wright echoed a similar sentiment.
"He's good. He's been normal. He said it wasn't a big deal," Wright said.
Those comments align with Pulisic's own assessment after Friday's match.
"I'm really hoping that it's nothing," Pulisic said. "Taking a little bit of precaution today, but I'm hoping I'll be fine the next few days."
Why The Situation Still Bears Watching
Even with the optimistic public comments, the USMNT's decision to keep Pulisic out of full training is noteworthy.
Pulisic remains the team's most important attacking player and was outstanding before exiting against Paraguay. He helped create the opening goal and delivered the assist on Folarin Balogun's strike as the Americans raced to a 3-0 halftime lead.
The concern isn't necessarily Friday's match alone.
The United States has legitimate aspirations of making a deep World Cup run on home soil, and preserving Pulisic's health throughout the tournament is critical.
There is also recent history between Pulisic and Australia. During a friendly between the two nations last October, a hard challenge from Australian defender Jason Geria led to a hamstring injury that sidelined Pulisic for multiple weeks.
With Australia coming off a 2-0 victory over Turkey and tied with the United States atop Group D, Friday's matchup could determine first place in the group and potentially shape the Americans' path through the knockout rounds.
All Eyes On Friday
For now, the USMNT appears to be taking every possible precaution.
Pochettino and the team's medical staff are likely focused on ensuring Pulisic is available not only against Australia but for the remainder of the tournament.
Still, seeing the team's biggest star training separately just four days before a crucial World Cup match is enough to make U.S. fans uneasy.
The good news is that every indication from teammates and coaches suggests Pulisic is expected to be available.
The next few training sessions, however, will be watched closely as the United States prepares for one of its most important matches of the tournament.
