Why is Christian Pulisic not starting for the USMNT vs Ecuador in the international friendly?

The USMNT faces Ecuador this Friday, but Christian Pulisic is not part of the starting lineup.

As part of their preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, the USMNT will play an international friendly against Ecuador this Friday at Q2 Stadium. Christian Pulisic will not be part of the starting XI.

Just before kickoff, the United States confirmed their starting lineup to face Ecuador, with Pulisic’s absence standing out. The AC Milan forward will not start, reportedly due to ankle issues that have kept him from training with his teammates this week. However, he will be on the bench and could come on in the second half.

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