Christian Pulisic should consider himself fortunate to be a regular starter at AC Milan, thanks to his exceptional form. Why? Because it’s rare for an American-born player to achieve such prominence on the domestic front, particularly in foreign leagues where prejudice against players from his country of origin has often existed. In fact, the latest individuals to point out this problem are Tim Howard and Landon Donovan. They claim that U.S.-based stars often get ‘the short end of the stick’ in Europe.

This surprising revelation came to light in the latest podcast episode of Unfiltered Soccer, hosted by both USWNT icons. As this topic makes its way to the discussion, Howard offers a blunt statement on the domestic leagues outside America not offering enough chances to his country-origin stars. “American soccer players get the short end of the stick in Europe. End of story,” he said.

Agreeing with the former goalkeeper, Donovan further elaborated on the situation by citing the example of Ricardo Pepi. Despite playing for the renowned Dutch side PSV Eindhoven, Pepi has only managed 19 appearances, several of which were as a substitute. What’s surprising is that the forward has displayed brilliant form, scoring 11 goals and providing an assist, yet he has not been favored much. 

“What else does this guy have to do to start a game? I mean, I’m just sick of it. It’s ridiculous,” remarked Donovan, expressing his frustration over Pepi not being a regular starter. Adding to the former USMNT striker’s claim, Howard urged all the American-based stars who are representing big clubs in Europe to not let such alleged discrimination affect them.

“You have to have this mindset that you’re going to earn it every day,” advised Howard, who ironically has made over 399 Premier League appearances while playing for Manchester United and Everton. The 45-year-old has also been featured in many UEFA Champions League, Europa League, and FA Cup games.

Then again, during his playing days, time was different; the current scenario actually sees many remarkable American talents struggling to find minutes. Not long ago, Pulisic once remarked on this issue, stating, “I’ve been in Europe for over 10 years now which sounds crazy. It’s difficult in the beginning. I think people definitely look at this guy and say ‘You know he’s an American guy, I don’t want him taking my spot over here.’” 

No wonder Howard and Donovan decided to raise this issue, just like another USMNT icon did so following Pulisic’s penalty drama!

Alexi Lalas echoed Christian Pulisic’s discrimination claims, too

You’ll be able to connect the dots further after remembering the penalty controversy involving Christian Pulisic and his AC Milan teammates. Despite being the designated penalty taker, he lost the chance to take two spot-kicks during a match against Fiorentina. Ultimately, the Italian giants succumbed to a 2-1 defeat. On the State of the Union podcast, David Moose speculated about potential bias against Pulisic within the Milan squad, suggesting it might make him appear submissive. Alexi Lalas dismissed this, attributing it to Pulisic’s reserved and introverted nature rather than any internal issues.

Lalas emphasized that the former Chelsea star proves his worth through on-field performances rather than vocal leadership. However, the former defender did mention that Pulisic is still seen as an outsider, not only as a foreign player but because of his American origins. “Even with his going over to Europe at a young age, he’s still an American and there is a kind of baggage that comes with that. Not always in a bad way, but you’re always going to be looked at in a soccer sense,” said Alexi.

If this is the case, then it’s surely a major concern for the American talents. Let’s hope it doesn’t stay that way anymore.