Christian Pulisic Updates Injury Status Ahead of USA vs. Türkiye in World Cup Group Stage

After missing Friday's 2-0 win over Australia in the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Team USA star Christian Pulisic is ready to return to the pitch.

Pulisic, who is dealing with a calf injury, was asked if he expects to be available to play in Thursday's group stage finale against Türkiye, and he simply replied, "Yes."

Pulisic injured his left calf right before the start of the World Cup. He played in the first half of the U.S. men's national team's group-stage opener against Paraguay and picked up an assist in the 4-1 victory before exiting after he aggravated the injury.

Despite being without Pulisic against Australia, the USMNT cruised to victory to clinch a spot in the knockout stage. The team has never won a World Cup, but this year's group has a solid chance if it can stay healthy. Thursday's match against Türkiye is inconsequential, but it would be smart to get Pulisic back into game shape before the stakes are higher.

In addition to Pulisic being banged up, ESPN's Jeff Carlisle reported that a U.S. Soccer spokesperson announced midfielder Cristian Roldan is considered day-to-day due to a muscle strain. Midfielder Tyler Adams is also sitting on a yellow card and would incur a suspension for the round of 32 if he receives another one against Türkiye.

Pulisic's return would certainly boost morale for the USMNT, and he will be hoping to be at full strength when the team moves on to the next stage and tries to win its first World Cup title.