Pulisic Shines in Serie A as USMNT Faces Challenges Ahead

omidbasir- Christian Pulisic’s performance in Serie A this season has been his most impressive yet while wearing the Milan jersey. The American forward has already scored in double digits, finding the net multiple times despite logging less than 600 minutes of play. Additionally, he has provided two assists, establishing himself as Milan’s standout player and contributing significantly to the club’s title challenge.

Gio Reyna, on the other hand, has seen an upturn in his performance for Borussia Monchengladbach, contributing to three goals during the U.S. Men’s National Team’s friendlies in October. Under head coach Mauricio Pochettino, the selection process for the national team is based on merit, rewarding players who demonstrate strong club form. If Reyna continues to excel, he possesses more talent than others in his position.

Despite this potential, the U.S. team appears to be at a disadvantage compared to top-tier opponents. The quest for a significant victory against a fully equipped rival highlights the challenges they face, suggesting that reaching the last 16 may be their realistic ceiling.

Conversely, the U.S. Women’s National Team is currently at the pinnacle of international football. Head coach Emma Hayes has effectively rotated her squad over the past 18 months, enhancing the depth of an already talented player pool. With two friendlies scheduled at the end of the month, Hayes will likely seek to secure tough matches for her squad. The question remains: who can challenge their dominance?

In MLS, unless Lionel Messi faces a serious injury or loses his exceptional form, he is expected to maintain his status as a key player, even with a World Cup looming mid-season. As Inter Miami works on strengthening their roster, they may face stiff competition from teams like LAFC, who have shown depth and promise under assistant manager Marc Dos Santos.

The NWSL is navigating complex negotiations, but the introduction of the “High Impact Player” rule seems to pave the way for top talent, potentially allowing players like Rodman to secure contracts that reflect their skills. Reports suggest that Rodman has a desire to remain in D.C.

Kansas City had a remarkable regular season in 2025, but faltered in the playoffs, partly due to an injury to star player and league MVP Temwa Chawinga. With her return and an overhaul in their front office, the Current appear to be well-positioned for the upcoming year. If Chawinga remains fit, they could pose a formidable challenge in every match.

As for predictions, while it may seem a conservative choice, Spain emerges as a strong contender following their Euro 2024 victory and an impressive unbeaten streak. Meanwhile, traditional powerhouses like Argentina and England face their own uncertainties, and France is still searching for a creative leader after Antoine Griezmann’s international retirement.

Finally, the spotlight on the USMNT manager Pochettino is intensifying, with speculation about overseas coaching opportunities. He has expressed a desire to return to the Premier League, and given his short-term contract aimed at bolstering the USMNT before the home World Cup, it is likely that he will attract interest from top clubs, should he decide to pursue that path.