The United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) lost their third consecutive game on Saturday in a friendly against Turkey during their preparations for the CONCACAF Gold Cup.
The following day, during Fox Sports’ coverage of the UEFA Nations League final between Portugal and Spain, former USMNT star Landon Donovan delivered pointed criticism about star players missing the tournament.
As images showed Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo crying with joy after his country’s dramatic penalty shootout victory, Donovan said: “This is what it means to represent your country. This is what it means. And if you don’t want to take this as a professional soccer player, as someone who gets the opportunity to wear that jersey and take it seriously and responsibly, then don’t come in.
“This is what it means. [Cristiano Ronaldo]’s 40 years old. He’s played a long season. He’s tired. He’s out there grinding. Hurt himself in the process, and I can’t help but think about our guys on vacation, not wanting to play in the Gold Cup. It’s pissing me off.”
While Donovan didn’t mention names, the subtext was clear: he was referencing Christian Pulisic, who withdrew from the squad citing fatigue after playing over 3,500 minutes for AC Milan last season.
The criticism prompted a response from Pulisic’s father, Mark, who used ChatGPT to research Donovan’s 2012-13 sabbatical from soccer. He posted the AI-generated response:
“Landon Donovan took his sabbatical because he was feeling both physically and mentally exhausted after years of intense competition and the pressure that comes with being a top athlete,” the AI copy read.
“He’d been playing professionally from a young age and had participated in multiple World Cups, so he felt the need to step back and take some time for himself. This break allowed him to rest, travel, and ultimately return to the game with a refreshed mindset.”
Mark Pulisic then unleashed on Instagram: “This guy is talking about commitment. Look in the mirror and grow a pair and call names out, or are you afraid? Next time you want an interview, you will get rejected again.”
With coach Mauricio Pochettino seeking answers to his team’s underwhelming performances and perceived lack of commitment, Donovan’s public criticism adds another layer of uncertainty around the squad just one year before the US hosts the World Cup.
Insideworldfootball.com
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