Christian Pulisic was a surprise exclusion from the U.S. men’s national team starting lineup to face Ecuador in an international friendly.
The USMNT and AC Milan superstar was dealing with ankle pain, per Doug McIntyre. Also missing from the starting lineup was Fulham defender Antonee Robinson, though the reason for his absence was not confirmed. Also out was Club América winger Alejandro Zendejas.
Pulisic was, however, listed as a substitute, unlike his two aforementioned teammates. While USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino could have played it safe and fully rested him, Pulisic was brought on in the second half for the final 15 minutes.
“I need to communicate that we have some issues in some players, like Christian [Pulisic], who didn’t train today, we need to assess tomorrow [if] they can be available or not,” the head coach said earlier in the week.
Pochettino Sticks With Three Defenders vs. Ecuador
Fans were curious coming into the game how Pochettino would set up the USMNT given prior concerns around formation and squad selection. After a positive showing against Japan to close the September window, the former Tottenham Hotspur boss is sticking with three at the back.
Tim Ream, wearing the captain’s armband, Chris Richards and Miles Robinson started in defense. Across the midfield four were Max Arfsten, Aidan Morris, Tanner Tessmann and Tim Weah. Up front, Folarin Balogun led the line with Weston McKennie and Malik Tillman flanking him.
Fans hoped Pulisic is able to feature in some fashion and got their wish to close out the game.
The American has been in the form of his life for AC Milan being named player of the month in Serie A for September. The 27-year-old scored three goals and assisted twice beating out the likes of Kevin De Bruyne and Federico Dimarco for the honor.
USMNT Lineup vs. Ecuador—International Friendly
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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Why Christian Pulisic Didn’t Start for USMNT vs. Ecuador.
