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The U.S. men’s national team faces a massive test against Australia in its second World Cup match, but the biggest story heading into the game isn’t just the opponent — it’s Captain America’s fitness.
If Christian Pulisic is sidelined, the U.S. faces a massive tactical void on the wing. On “World Cup NOW,” FOX Sports’ Alex Scott, former national team manager Bob Bradley and veteran defender Walker Zimmerman weighed in on who gets the nod in a “next man up” scenario.
While both agreed the roster boasts incredible depth, the two offered fascinating, distinct perspectives on how to solve the Pulisic puzzle.
The case for Tim Weah
For Bradley, the answer is simple: You rely on proven experience and raw qualities. The former American boss did not hesitate to name Tim Weah as the immediate successor to Pulisic’s place on the pitch.
“I’d probably go with Tim Weah,” Bradley said. “It’s just based on the fact that I think he’s shown in the past that he wants to step up. He competes, of course. He’s got a lot of experience and he’s been part of that group. I think the other players trust him. He’s fast, so I think that would be the choice.”
Tim Weah has seven goals in 52 caps for the US men’s national team. (Photo by Sebastian Frej/Getty Images)
Zimmerman pointed out Weah’s lack of familiarity with the current team.
“I think the familiarity is what might concern me with Tim Weah,” Zimmerman explained. “If you have him on the right, but then you have Sergiño [Dest] and Antonee [Robinson] on the same side on the left and I like their ability on opposite sides… the way they can come forward.”
It is a valid strategic question. The overlapping chemistry between the wingers and fullbacks is crucial to the USA’s attacking identity. Moving pieces around to accommodate Pulisic’s absence could inadvertently disrupt the rhythm of stars like Dest and Robinson.
Despite the tactical questions, Zimmerman was quick to point out Weah’s CV, reminding fans of his World Cup goal against Wales in 2022.
‘Plethora of Options’
Ultimately, Zimmerman views Pulisic’s potential absence as an opportunity for arguably the most talented USA roster, rather than a worst-case scenario.
“The good news is there’s a ton of opportunities for players who are hungry and they’re ready and they say ‘this is my chance to make an impact,'” Zimmerman said. “They will be ready to go, whoever the name is.
Whether it’s Weah or whether Pulisic is fit enough to go, the mentality remains the same. Whoever gets their name called against Australia will be lethal, prepared and ready to roll.
