Christian Pulisic acknowledges he’s navigating a challenging period with both AC Milan and the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT), but remains optimistic that his goal-scoring fortunes will soon turn. He believes a lucky deflection is all it will take to break his current dry spell.
The forward enjoyed an outstanding run of form in 2025; however, he has yet to score for the Rossoneri in the current calendar year. This club drought coincides with an international goalless streak that began in 2024. The frustration mounted after another difficult outing for the USA, who suffered a 5-2 home defeat to Belgium in a warm-up match for their host duties at the upcoming World Cup.
Pulisic Reflects on Difficult Spell
“For me, it’s disheartening,” Pulisic conveyed to reporters. “I feel I could have done better with one of the opportunities. I missed it, and then they immediately scored, completely shifting the game’s momentum. It’s certainly frustrating for me.” This particular chance involved him sending the ball over the bar when the score was 1-1, moments before Belgium took a 2-1 lead.
Despite the challenges he’s facing in front of goal for both his club and country, the 27-year-old is determined to maintain a positive outlook.
“It’s been a tough stretch, but I’m confident in how I’m playing,” he asserted. “I feel good and I’m creating scoring chances. So, I simply need to stay positive and persevere. However, yes, I absolutely need to be more clinical in those crucial moments.”
Pulisic hopes to experience the common phenomenon where goals, much like ketchup from a bottle, start flowing once an initial blockage is cleared. All he feels he needs is that small stroke of luck every striker eventually experiences in their career.
“I know eventually a ball will rebound off my knee and find the net, and then everything will change. So, I’m not going to panic – it’s better for this to happen now than closer to the summer. Things will undoubtedly improve.”
Despite his recent dry spell, Pulisic has recorded 10 goals and three assists in 27 official matches for Milan this season, though all these contributions occurred before the start of the New Year. His last goal in Serie A dates back to the 3-0 victory over Hellas Verona on December 28.