Pulisic and Other American Players Return to Action Amid Injury Concerns

Just under a month after sustaining an injury while on international duty against Australia, Christian Pulisic has returned to training and appears poised to participate in the upcoming match against Parma. At 27 years old, Pulisic is not expected to start, as La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that he may be introduced during the final hour of the game. Regardless of whether he plays for an hour or just 15 minutes, this marks a positive development for both his club and the national team, despite his exclusion from the November USMNT squad. Initial reports of his injury had raised concerns, but a few weeks of recovery instead of months is encouraging news.

The Italian outlet further elaborated on the factors influencing both Pulisic’s absence from the USMNT and AC Milan’s decision to include him in this weekend’s match. Although Max Allegri has not publicly commented, Gazzetta noted that the upcoming Derby della Madonnina on November 23—always a high priority for the club—played a significant role in managing his recovery. Pulisic has been a standout performer for Milan this season, contributing four goals and two assists in six league appearances. During his absence, Milan has struggled, securing only one victory in their last four matches, including a disappointing draw against Pisa. The upcoming clash against 16th-placed Parma presents Allegri with an opportunity to experiment with tactics and assess available options ahead of the derby.

Additionally, the report indicated that Milan CEO Giorgio Furlani personally negotiated with U.S. Soccer to allow Pulisic to skip the November matches to ensure he regains full fitness, shedding light on his decision to remain in Italy.

On the other hand, Benjamin Cremaschi’s Parma may not accept the role of a mere tune-up opponent. With just one win this season and sitting just a point above the relegation zone, the 19-year-old American, who has played only 14 minutes since joining from Inter Miami, is eager for more playing time. Given that Parma has scored only five goals this campaign—matching Cremaschi’s total at the U-20 World Cup—there is a strong possibility that his opportunity to shine could arise soon.

Meanwhile, Cardoso has recently returned to Atlético Madrid’s matchday squad on November 1 after a lengthy injury layoff, but he has yet to feature in either of the club’s two matches this month—comfortable wins over Seville and Union SG. His return coincided with a productive period for Atlético, who scored six goals in those fixtures, yet Cardoso remains without minutes since his recovery. The midfielder, acquired from Real Betis in a $34.8 million transfer earlier this year, was among La Liga’s most consistent players last season, aiding Betis in reaching the Europa Conference League final. With the World Cup approaching, regular playing time is crucial for the American international to regain his rhythm.

Atlético will face 16th-place Levante this weekend following their midweek Champions League match, and rotation is expected. This situation could create an opportunity for Cardoso to re-enter the action. Should he remain on the bench, discussions regarding his future role and the potential for a loan in January may begin to surface.

Not long ago, Richards’ Crystal Palace was among the early success stories of the Premier League season, having secured a Champions League position after a 2-1 victory over then-league leaders Liverpool in September. However, since then, Palace has achieved only one league victory—a result against Brentford on November 1. The decline in defensive performance has been a significant factor; during their strong start, Palace conceded only two goals and achieved two clean sheets in the opening four matches, averaging 0.50 goals against per game. Since October, that average has risen to 1.50 goals against per game, with expected goals against per 90 minutes (xGA/90) remaining relatively stable.

This trend points to broader issues concerning squad depth. Last season, Palace maintained one of the league’s most stable defenses, partly due to fewer fixtures. This year, participation in European competitions has stretched the squad thin, especially after several key summer departures with limited reinforcements.

Manager Oliver Glasner has expressed frustration with U.S. Soccer for not accommodating his request to rest Richards, who has been managing a minor injury. Consequently, Richards was omitted from the USMNT’s November squad, despite being one of the team’s standout defenders. Nevertheless, he has continued to play regularly for Palace, logging 90 minutes in each of the club’s four matches since the last international break.

Crystal Palace is set to host a resurgent Brighton side this weekend. The Seagulls, who initially struggled following key offseason departures, have regained form, with former Inter Miami winger Diego Gómez playing a crucial role, scoring twice against Leeds last week. Brighton currently sits just one point behind Palace in the league.

Palace has the potential to climb as high as fourth place, depending on other results. Sustaining momentum will rely on Richards’ ability to perform consistently through a busy schedule.

Like Pulisic, Malik Tillman also faced injury issues during the last international break but made his return to action this week in Bayer Leverkusen’s 1-0 Champions League victory over Benfica. Tillman’s start at his new Bundesliga club has been inconsistent. The manager who recruited him, Erik ten Hag, was dismissed after three matches, and the attacking midfielder has been working to establish himself under new coach Kasper Hjulmand. Prior to his injury, Tillman had a strong performance during the United States’ friendly against Ecuador, assisting Folarin Balogun on the equalizing goal.

Tillman came off the bench against Benfica, playing for 34 minutes. With Leverkusen set to face last-place 1. FC Heidenheim on Saturday, he may be in line for more significant playing time. The 23-year-old has already scored two goals in the Bundesliga this season after netting 12 for PSV Eindhoven last year.