2025-10-02 02:11:38
Siddhant Lazar’Long may it continue’ – Landon Donovan applauds Christian Pulisic’s play for AC Milan, says Gold Cup criticism wasn’t personalFormer USMNT star Landon Donovan has changed his tone regarding Christian Pulisic following the winger’s exceptional performances for AC Milan. Donovan, who previously criticized Pulisic’s decision to skip the Gold Cup, emphasized his support for the 26-year-old’s success while explaining the reasoning behind his earlier comments.
Landon Donovan, the legendary former US Men’s National Team (USMNT) star, has publicly expressed his admiration for Christian Pulisic’s recent stellar displays with AC Milan, marking a significant shift from his previous critical stance. Donovan’s endorsement comes as Pulisic continues to shine in Serie A, demonstrating the form that has made him one of the most dynamic wingers in European football. The former LA Galaxy icon, who is now a respected analyst, stated that Pulisic’s performances for the Rossoneri have been nothing short of exceptional, proving his caliber on one of the world’s biggest stages.
This change in tone is particularly notable because Donovan had been vocal in his disapproval of Pulisic’s decision to skip the 2023 Gold Cup with the USMNT, a move that drew widespread debate across the soccer community. At the time, Donovan argued that Pulisic, as the team’s captain and most prominent player, should have prioritized representing his country in the continental championship. However, Donovan now clarified that his criticism was rooted in his passion for the national team’s success and not a personal attack on Pulisic, whom he has always regarded as a generational talent for American soccer.
Donovan emphasized that seeing Pulisic thrive at AC Milan, especially after a challenging initial period at the club, has reinforced his belief in the player’s dedication and quality. He pointed to Pulisic’s crucial contributions in key matches, including decisive goals and assists, which have helped Milan remain competitive in both domestic and European competitions. The former USMNT forward stated that Pulisic’s journey exemplifies the resilience required to succeed in top-tier football, and he hopes the winger maintains this high level of performance for the foreseeable future. Ultimately, Donovan concluded that Pulisic’s success is a win for American soccer as a whole, and he stands firmly behind the player’s achievements.
Landon Donovan, the iconic former US Men’s National Team star, has openly praised Christian Pulisic’s outstanding contributions for AC Milan, signaling a clear shift in his perspective after previously voicing objections to the winger’s absence from the Gold Cup. Donovan’s recent comments highlight his admiration for Pulisic’s technical abilities, work ethic, and match-winning impact in Serie A, where the American has become instrumental in Milan’s attacking setup. The legendary forward specifically commended Pulisic’s consistency in high-pressure situations, noting how his speed, dribbling, and clinical finishing have elevated the team’s performance against elite European competition.
This positive reassessment follows intense scrutiny of Pulisic’s choice to skip the 2023 Gold Cup to focus solely on his club career during a critical phase of his development at AC Milan. Donovan initially argued that Pulisic’s leadership was indispensable for the USMNT in the continental tournament, stressing that national team commitments should align with major summer events. However, he has now clarified that his critique stemmed from deep investment in American soccer’s progress rather than any personal grievance against Pulisic, whom he has long considered a trailblazer for U.S. players abroad. Donovan emphasized that witnessing Pulisic’s transformative role for a historic club like Milan has validated the winger’s decision to prioritize his club pathway.
Donovan further detailed how Pulisic’s evolution at AC Milan—evidenced by decisive goals, creative assists, and improved defensive engagement—demonstrates his growth into a mature, world-class attacker capable of thriving under immense expectations. He pointed to standout performances against top Serie A rivals as proof that Pulisic’s dedication to honing his craft at the club level has paid dividends both for himself and the broader reputation of American talent. While acknowledging the complexity of balancing national team duties with club ambitions, Donovan expressed genuine enthusiasm for Pulisic’s trajectory, stating unequivocally that the player’s success energizes the entire U.S. soccer ecosystem. The former USMNT standout concluded by reiterating his hope that Pulisic maintains this peak form for years to come, calling it vital for the next generation of American athletes to witness.
