NEWNow you can listen to Pak Gazette articles!
The US men’s national team faces a huge test against Australia in its second World Cup match, but the biggest story heading into the match isn’t just the opponent: it’s the physical condition of Captain America himself.
If Christian Pulisic is out, the United States faces a huge tactical void on the wing. On “World Cup NOW,” FOX Sports’ Alex Scott, former national team manager Bob Bradley and veteran defenseman Walker Zimmerman weighed in on who will get the nod in a “next man up” scenario.
While both agreed that the roster has incredible depth, they offered two different and fascinating perspectives on how to solve the Pulisic puzzle.
The case of Tim Weah
For Bradley, the answer is simple: you rely on proven experience and raw attributes. The former United States coach did not hesitate to label Tim Weah as the immediate successor to Pulisic’s position on the field.
“I’d probably pick Tim Weah,” Bradley said. “That’s just based on the fact that I think he’s shown in the past that he’s going to step up. He competes, obviously. He’s got a lot of experience and he’s been part of that group. I think the other players trust him. He’s quick, so I think that would be the choice.”
Tim Weah has seven goals in 52 international matches for the United States men’s national team. (Photo by Sebastián Frej/Getty Images)
Zimmerman pointed out Weah’s lack of familiarity with the current team.
“I think familiarity is what might worry me with Tim Weah,” Zimmerman explained. “If you have him on the right, but then you have Sergiño [Dest] and anthonee [Robinson] “They’re on the same left side and I like their skills on opposite sides… the way they can move forward.”
It is a valid strategic question. The overlapping chemistry between wingers and fullbacks is crucial to the United States’ offensive identity. Moving pieces 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 resume, reminding fans of his World Cup goal against Wales in 2022.
‘Plethora of options’
Ultimately, Zimmerman sees Pulisic’s potential absence as an opportunity for arguably the most talented roster in the United States, rather than a worst-case scenario.
“The good news is there are a lot of options of players who are hungry and ready and saying ‘this is my chance to make an impact,'” Zimmerman said. “They will be ready to go, whatever name it is called.
Whether it’s Weah or Pulisic is healthy enough to leave, the mentality remains the same. Whoever gets his name called against Australia will be lethal, primed and ready to go.
