USMNT fans worried after Christian Pulisic retired at halftime against Paraguay

After an unforgettable first half, USMNT fans were scared when star Christian Pulisic did not return for the second half of the United States’ World Cup opener against Paraguay.

The Hershey, Pennsylvania native, who plays club soccer for AC Milan, assisted on the United States’ second goal, scored by Folarin Balogun, and was one of the team’s standout players during the first half.

However, as the team emerged from the tunnel, it was revealed that Pulisic had been replaced in favor of Sebastian Berhalter, son of former USMNT player and coach Gregg Berhalter.

WATCH THE WORLD CUP FINAL ON FOX ONE

The thing is, the team didn’t give any reason as to why the change was made.

During the FOX Sports broadcast, it was reported that Pulisic had indicated to his family in the stands that he was fine.

After the United States wrapped up their 4-1 victory, USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino clarified why the star was substituted. According to Tom Bogert of The Athletic, Pochettino said that Pulisic took a kick to the calf that caused some strain and that the decision to withdraw him was purely preventive.

THE NEW EXPERIENCE OF WATCHING THE FOX ONE WORLD CUP

Part of the fans’ concern stemmed from Pulisic’s recent injury history. He missed last summer’s Gold Cup to rest after playing 50 games for AC Milan.

The following season, he had to deal with several injuries. Most recently, according to ESPN, he missed a game last month due to a lower back issue.

Christian Pulisic had an assist in the first half of the USMNT World Cup opener against Paraguay. (Images by Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn)

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE Pak Gazette APP

Pulisic is a key player for the USMNT, and his absence was noticeable in the second half.

While Pochettino said the substitution was purely preventive, American fans will likely remain uncomfortable until Pulisic returns to the field and is fully healthy.