Pulisic: Frustration Mounts, But No Panic Amidst Milan and USMNT Goal Drought

AC Milan and USMNT star Christian Pulisic has acknowledged his recent struggles with goalscoring for both club and country, expressing frustration but maintaining optimism that his fortunes will soon turn. "A ball will hit off my knee and go in, and then things will change," he stated confidently, reflecting on his current form.

After a stellar run of form in 2025, the forward has yet to score for the Rossoneri in the current calendar year. This club drought compounds an international dry spell that dates back to 2024.

His frustrations were further highlighted during the USA's recent World Cup warm-up match, a 5-2 home defeat against Belgium, where Pulisic failed to convert key opportunities.

Pulisic Acknowledges Difficult Spell

"For me, it’s disappointing," Pulisic openly discussed with reporters. "I feel I could have done better on one of the chances. I missed that, and then they go and score, which completely changes the game. It's definitely frustrating."

He specifically recalled a pivotal moment when he shot over the bar with the score at 1-1, only for Belgium to seize the lead shortly after at 2-1.

Despite facing significant challenges in front of goal for both his club and national team, the 27-year-old is focused on maintaining a positive mindset.

"It’s been a tough patch, but I feel confident in the way I’m playing," he affirmed.

"I feel good and I'm actively creating chances," Pulisic added. "Therefore, I just need to remain positive and persevere. However, I absolutely need to be more clinical in those crucial moments."

Pulisic is hopeful that his scoring drought will mimic the "ketchup bottle" analogy – once the initial struggle is overcome, goals will flow freely and consistently.

He believes a small stroke of luck, a common desire for any striker experiencing a dry spell, is all he needs.

"I know a ball will eventually hit off my knee and go in, and then everything will change," he stated, refusing to panic. "It’s better for this to happen now than in the summer. Things are definitely going to change."

Despite his current slump, Pulisic had already contributed significantly this season, recording 10 goals and three assists in 27 official matches for Milan, all achieved before the start of the new year.

His last Serie A goal dates back to Milan's 3-0 triumph over Hellas Verona on December 28th.