Pochettino refuses to confirm Pulisic fitness for USA's Group D clash with Australia

Christian Pulisic’s availability for the United States’ Copa America Group D fixture against Australia at Lumen Field in Seattle on Friday remains in doubt after the AC Milan forward was restricted to individual training sessions in the build-up to the match.

Pulisic had been one of the standout performers in the USA’s opening 4-1 victory over Paraguay, providing the assist for Folarin Balogun’s first goal before being withdrawn at half-time. The nature of his exit prompted concern, and head coach Mauricio Pochettino was unable to give a clear verdict on his fitness at Thursday’s press conference.

“He’s evolving. He’s much better from Friday. We will see,” Pochettino said. “If he is not available for tomorrow, he will be available for the next game against Turkiye next Friday.”

Pochettino also offered reassurance about Pulisic’s attitude in dealing with the setback. “When this type of thing happens, always it’s painful. Christian is strong and with a great mentality. He’s doing a fantastic effort to try and be ready as soon as possible.”

Pulisic was spotted training away from the main group alongside members of the US medical team during a session on Wednesday, a sign that the coaching staff are managing his workload carefully rather than risking an aggravation.

The 87-cap forward, who has scored 33 goals for the United States, is his country’s most prominent attacking threat, and his absence would represent a significant blow to Pochettino’s plans. Australia, who also opened with a win — defeating Turkiye — arrive in Seattle knowing that a second consecutive victory would put them in a strong position to advance from the group.