Christian Pulisic Urged to Emulate Canadian Rival Ahead of CONCACAF Nations League Clash – “You Are the Golden Child of US Soccer, Show That…”

In a few hours, the USMNT will gather for a pivotal showdown in the ongoing CONCACAF Nations League. With their sights set on advancing to the finals, the American squad is preparing to face Jamaica in the semi-finals, hoping to clinch the third consecutive title. Amidst the intense preparations, star player Christian Pulisic has been urged to draw inspiration from his Canadian rival, as he is deemed to be ‘missing that bit of edge.’

The former Chelsea star became a subject of discussion on the CBS Sports Golazo Morning Footy show, where former soccer player Nigel Reo-Coker had some critiques for Pulisic. “I’m a big Pulisic fan, but I still feel he’s missing that bit of edge and I think he has got it in him. He has to understand now that whether you like it or not, you are the ‘Golden Child’ of US soccer. Show that little bit of edge,” said the ex-England midfielder. Nigel insisted that when the AC Milan winger is compared with other players worldwide, he lacks edge as well as ego. 

The pundit then insisted that he still sees a ‘little boy‘ inside Pulisic and urged the former Dortmund player to become a man who makes a difference. Interestingly, Nigel then cited the example of Canadian superstar Alphonso Davies. He further highlighted how the left-back witnessed a remarkable rise at Bayern Munich. “He’s got that edge to say, ‘Yeah, I’m that man.’ Pulisic might not have it in his personality, but I think he should have it in him,” concluded Nigel. It was quite a constructive criticism from the England icon for Pulisic, unlike the praise he received from another USMNT icon.

USMNT icon claims Christian Pulisic is ‘overproduced’ 

Ex-USMNT star Charlie Davies disagrees with the assertions that Christian Pulisic is ‘overrated.’ During an appearance on CBS Sports Golazo, Davies shared his perspective on the winger, highlighting the ‘good job’ Pulisic has done for AC Milan so far. “I think he’s overproduced, if anything. He’s exceeded expectations,” said Davies. Notably, this wasn’t the only praise that Pulisic garnered. 

READ MORE: USMNT vs Jamaica- Expected Lineups, Injuries, Predictions, Head-to-Head, Live Streaming & How to Watch CONCACAF Nations League on TV

Another USMNT icon, Herculez Gomez, also hailed the 25-year-old for scoring the right goals at the right time for Milan. Remarkably, in over 25 appearances, Pulisic has bagged 9 goals and 6 assists across all competitions for his domestic side. Certainly, he’ll be looking to showcase a similar form for his nation in the upcoming contest, all the while heeding the advice to emulate Alphonso Davies.