Mexico Star Reveals Surprising Bond with USMNT's Christian Pulisic Behind the Scenes

The United States and Mexico share one of soccer's most intense international rivalries. However, Mexico's national team forward Santiago Gimenez has recently disclosed that he's developed a close bond with USMNT star Christian Pulisic.

Since Gimenez's arrival at AC Milan in January 2025, both players have been teammates in the same locker room. During a conversation with ESPN, Gimenez revealed that Pulisic has become among his dearest companions since his move to Italy.

"When we face each other [representing our nations], we become adversaries," Gimenez explained. "We're opponents. However, in our team environment, he's among my closest allies. We spend considerable time together and I wish him success, unless he's facing Mexico. But when he plays against Mexico, naturally I need to defeat him.

"This topic frequently comes up in our AC Milan locker room discussions. Teammates tease us or inquire, 'Which team is superior, the USMNT or Mexico?' I advocate for Mexico, Pulisic champions the U.S., and we engage in playful arguments, though it's all done with affection.

"He provided tremendous support during my challenging recovery period. We share many interests. We both enjoy the NFL - he follows the Jets while I support the Dolphins. Occasionally, I visit his home where we barbecue and watch NFL games together.

"He's an excellent teammate and friend, but ultimately, when he wears the USMNT jersey, he becomes my opponent."

Both forwards are approaching what could be the most crucial phase of their careers, as the United States, Mexico, and Canada will jointly host the 2026 World Cup in under six months. Gimenez and Pulisic serve as key figures for their respective national squads, though both must rediscover their peak form before summer, as each has faced recent challenges.

Gimenez, Pulisic Facing Challenging 2026 Beginning

Gimenez, Pulisic Facing Challenging 2026 Beginning

The challenging period Gimenez mentioned, where Pulisic provided support, relates to persistent ankle problems that have sidelined him since late October. The 24-year-old forward had surgery in December and remains distant from returning to play, according to AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri.

However, Gimenez's difficulties began before his injury layoff. "El Bebote" appeared in eight of Milan's initial nine Serie A matches this season without finding the net once. Combined with his ankle troubles, he faces a time crunch to recover and secure his place in El Tri's 2026 World Cup squad.

Meanwhile, Pulisic has overcome muscle injuries that affected his availability toward the end of 2025. Nevertheless, the USMNT skipper hasn't regained his top form since his fitness problems and has managed just one goal in his previous eight Milan appearances.

Across five matches in 2026, Pulisic hasn't recorded any goal contributions—marking his longest barren spell this season. While he's assured a spot in Mauricio Pochettino's World Cup squad, he needs to return to peak performance before the tournament.

Despite their different circumstances and challenges, these friends are working to ensure they reach their highest level for the most significant competition of their careers.

Gimenez, Pulisic Approaching Career-Defining Opportunity

Gimenez, Pulisic Approaching Career-Defining Opportunity

The 2026 World Cup offers a significant chance for both the USMNT and Mexico: A domestic tournament where Gimenez and Pulisic could prove decisive in their nations' pursuit of memorable achievements.

Pulisic stands as the USMNT's most crucial player, their primary game-changer under Pochettino's guidance and captain of a squad that will enjoy extraordinary home support. From his friend Gimenez's perspective, Pulisic and the USMNT possess the capability for an impressive World Cup campaign.

"I believe [the United States] possesses a formidable national squad," Gimenez acknowledged. "I think they could reach the quarterfinals. They're a strong team."

Gimenez could also contribute significantly for Mexico in what would mark his first World Cup participation. The striker possesses the talent to serve as an important asset for Aguirre's team, and he's confident his ankle injury won't hinder him come summer, stating: "I'll be prepared for the World Cup."

Regarding Mexico's prospects of reaching the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time since 1986, Gimenez has faith in El Tri's capacity to break this streak.

"With our supporters in Mexico behind us, I believe we can definitely achieve this," Gimenez stated. "We'll work toward this goal because words alone won't accomplish it. Action is required, and we're striving to work as diligently as possible to reach this objective."

Beyond seeking a historic El Tri performance, the Mexico favorite couldn't conceal his enthusiasm about potentially renewing the rivalry against Pulisic and the USMNT on soccer's grandest platform.

"I'd be thrilled to face the U.S. in the World Cup," Gimenez expressed. "Due to the rivalry that soccer creates, and because supporters cherish this matchup."

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Roberto Casillas is a Sports Illustrated FC freelance writer covering Liga MX, the Mexican National Team & Latin American players in Europe. He is a die hard Cruz Azul and Chelsea fan.