Christian Pulisic and Clint Dempsey belong to different generations, but their paths intersect at the most important crossroads in American soccer history. One is the standard-bearer of the present, thriving at the highest level in Europe. The other is a World Cup veteran whose goals once carried a nation’s hopes. As the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues, their perspectives now converge around a single question: how can the United States turn promise into history on home soil?
What has emerged in recent weeks is a growing belief—shared by former players, coaches, and supporters alike—that the answer begins and ends with Christian Pulisic. And according to Clint Dempsey, the expectations placed on the Milan star are not just justified, but inevitable.
Pulisic arrives at this World Cup cycle in arguably the strongest club form of his career. Playing for AC Milan, he has evolved from an exciting wide attacker into a complete, decisive leader. His most recent goal in a 3-0 Serie A win over Hellas Verona pushed his season tally to 10 goals and two assists in just 15 matches across all competitions.
Under Massimiliano Allegri, Milan went through the entire second half of 2025 unbeaten domestically, with the American repeatedly delivering in defining moments. Since joining the club in 2023, he has been directly involved in 50 goals (31 goals, 19 assists). Across Serie A in that span, only Lautaro Martinez has posted more combined goal contributions. These numbers do more than boost Pulisic’s reputation—they redefine how he is viewed heading into the World Cup.
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What did Dempsey say about Pulisic?
That club-level growth frames the context for Dempsey’s remarks, which initially hinted at something deeper without spelling it out. Speaking about Pulisic’s role for the USMNT, Dempsey acknowledged the collective nature of tournament success—but then made his defining point.
As he explained in an interview with FrontRowSoccer, reflecting on Pulisic’s history in major competitions: “In big moments, whether it was World Cup qualifying or we’re playing in World Cup or playing in Copa America, he’s someone that steps up and scores your goals and gets you assists.” Those words finally revealed the bold claim: The prolific winger is expected to rise when the stakes are highest. Dempsey did not frame it as hope. He framed it as precedent.
At 27, Pulisic will enter his third World Cup firmly in his prime. Unlike previous tournaments, he will not be asked merely to inspire. He will be expected to command. The United States has not surpassed its 1930 World Cup semi-final finish in nearly a century. Hosting the tournament changes the psychological landscape.
Christian Pulisic on the bench against Ecuador
Automatic qualification removes the grind of qualifiers, but it also removes the safety net. Every match becomes a referendum on belief, composure, and leadership. This is where Pulisic’s evolution matters most. He no longer plays as a savior chasing moments. He plays as a leader, shaping games—controlling tempo, pressing intelligently, and choosing when to accelerate.
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The Dempsey perspective: Pressure as a privilege
Few American players understand World Cup pressure better than Dempsey. He scored in multiple tournaments and carried expectations that once seemed unbearable for U.S. soccer. That is why his confidence in Pulisic resonates.
“I’m not worried about what he’ll be able to do on the pitch as long as he’s healthy,” Dempsey added. “I think he’s one of those difference makers.” For the 42-year-old, the question is not whether Pulisic can deliver—but whether the team around him can stay fit and rise together.
