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Christian Pulisic opts out of this summer’s Gold Cup, here’s how fans reacted

Christian Pulisic won’t be playing in the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup. The United States men’s national team star opted out of the team’s final competitive competition prior to next summer’s home World Cup because he wants to rest.

Matt Crocker, the U.S. Soccer Sporting Director, said in a statement that Pulisic requested to not play in the Gold Cup.

"Christian and his team approached the Federation and the coaching staff about the possibility of stepping back this summer, given the amount of matches he has played in the past two years at both the club and international level with very little break," Crocker said in a statement. 

"After thoughtful discussions and careful consideration, we made the collective decision that this is the right moment for him to get the rest he needs. The objective is to ensure he's fully prepared to perform at the highest level next season."

Many USMNT fans were upset about the news. Here were the reactions online.

Fans react to Pulisic Gold Cup absence

A 27-man roster was revealed on Thursday for training camp ahead of the Gold Cup as well as a pair of friendlies against Switzerland and Turkey. Pulisic wasn’t the only notable name absent.

The USA’s best defender Antonee Robinson is also skipping out on the Gold Cup. Other big names miss out due to the Club World Cup occurring at the same time.

USMNT stars missing the Gold Cup

For rest/personal reasons

  • Christian Pulisic
  • Antonee Robinson
  • Yunus Musah

For Club World Cup

  • Weston McKennie
  • Timothy Weah
  • Gio Reyna

The USMNT’s Gold Cup campaign begins on June 15 against Trinidad and Tobago.

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