The U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) is facing some drama between its star player, Christian Pulisic, and head coach Mauricio Pochettino. The issue started when Pulisic decided not to play in the Gold Cup tournament last month. He explained that his body and mind needed rest after a long season, especially with the World Cup coming next year. Instead, he offered to play in two friendly matches in June but skipped the longer tournament. He discussed this with Pochettino and U.S. Soccer, thinking the matter was settled.

However, things got more complicated when it became clear that Pulisic and Pochettino haven’t spoken much since that decision. Both made comments in interviews that showed they weren’t completely on the same page. This has turned into a bigger disagreement, with former USMNT players and even Pulisic’s father adding their opinions. Now, the situation feels like a soap opera, with fans and media paying close attention.

Pulisic recently shared in a podcast interview that he had asked to play in the friendly matches against Tükiye and Switzerland, but the coaches refused. He said, “That's coach's decision, I fully respect that. I didn't understand it, but it is what it is.” This made it seem like there was some confusion or frustration on his part. Pochettino responded by saying that players shouldn’t question the coach’s plans. He stated, “He [doesn’t] need to understand or not understand. Players need to listen and to stick with our plan. They cannot dictate our plan because if [so], we invert, we swap positions, no? … We explain why we decided not to include him in the friendly games, and then if you have some problems — that’s not my problem [for him] to understand or not understand.”

The tension between the two became even clearer when Pulisic admitted that his relationship with Pochettino was different compared to past coaches. He said the lack of communication wasn’t a major issue but was “slightly different” from what he was used to. Pochettino, on the other hand, acted as if Pulisic was just another player in the squad. He said he couldn’t stay in regular contact with all 60 players and wanted everyone to feel equal respect. “I want to keep that all the players feel the same respect from the coaching staff and from myself,” he explained.

This approach seems to be causing some problems. Pulisic is not just any player—he is the most famous and successful men’s soccer player the U.S. has ever produced. He has been the team’s captain many times and is considered their most important player. Previous coaches, like Gregg Berhalter, treated him differently because of his role. Pulisic once shared a story about Berhalter calling him into his office late at night after a game where he scored but also got injured. Berhalter challenged him, saying he might need to train harder, but in a caring way. Pulisic said, “You can tell he's passionate, and he cares about his players.” That moment left a strong impression on him.

But Pochettino doesn’t seem to give Pulisic the same special treatment. Earlier this year, during a match against Canada, Pulisic appeared to ignore Pochettino’s decision to substitute him, waving off the change so he could take a free kick. Pochettino didn’t look happy about it. Now, with Pulisic skipping the Gold Cup, even though Pochettino publicly supported the decision, it seems there might still be some frustration between them.

The situation has sparked debates among fans and former players. Some believe Pulisic has earned the right to manage his workload, especially with his history of injuries. Others think he should always be available for the national team, especially in important tournaments. Meanwhile, Pochettino’s strict approach is being questioned—should he treat a star player like Pulisic the same as everyone else, or does a player of his level deserve more communication and understanding?

As the USMNT prepares for the World Cup next year, this disagreement could affect the team’s chemistry. If Pulisic and Pochettino don’t resolve their differences, it might create tension in the locker room. Fans hope the two can find common ground, because the team’s success depends on their best player and coach working together smoothly.

For now, the drama continues, and everyone is watching closely. Will Pulisic and Pochettino mend their relationship, or will this disagreement grow into a bigger problem? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—the USMNT’s journey to the World Cup just got a lot more interesting.