USMNT Icon Throws Down Bold World Cup Gauntlet to Christian Pulisic

Ex-U.S. men's national team legend Alexi Lalas thinks Christian Pulisic has the potential to become the "greatest male American soccer player" in history, but only if he performs at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Serving as captain and the clear top talent on the USMNT, Pulisic understands the burden of representing America, both during matches and beyond. However, leading the team with the Stars and Stripes' captain's band at a World Cup on American territory presents a different kind of pressure for the 27-year-old—one that could elevate him to legendary status.

"There's no superior method for enhancing your reputation than performing at a home World Cup," Lalas, who featured in every match for the USMNT during the 1994 World Cup, shared with the New York Post.

"Regardless of your club or the recognition you possess, the wealth you've accumulated; this represents a chance before your homeland to essentially present or re-present yourself.

"Therefore, I believe Christian Pulisic will have many watching him, and justifiably so. He's already a star, naturally, has previously competed in a World Cup, but this differs when playing on home turf.

"I believe as he progresses [he] will eventually be regarded as, potentially, the greatest male American soccer player ever. That's the path he's following."

Pulisic Pursuing the Legacy of Landon Donovan, Clint Dempsey

Pulisic has been mentioned alongside Landon Donovan and Clint Dempsey throughout his USMNT journey. Initially for his potential, later for his abilities, and more recently, his disappointments.

The two legends criticized Pulisic and several other American players for missing last summer's Gold Cup, challenging the dedication of today's generation. The AC Milan attacker responded and even overlooked Donovan and Dempsey when selecting his ideal USMNT five-player squad.

Despite the drama, Pulisic is already competing with the legends in USMNT history. The striker sits fifth among all-time leading scorers, trailing joint record-holders Donovan and Dempsey by just 25 goals.

If Pulisic, who has netted 40 times since joining Milan in July 2023, brings his outstanding club performance to international duty this summer, he'll have an opportunity to achieve something neither Donovan nor Dempsey accomplished: guide his nation to World Cup victory on American soil.

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