Friedel's Warning: Pulisic Must Avoid MLS for Peak Career

Friedel's Warning: Pulisic Must Avoid MLS for Peak Career

Arthur Jones
Arthur Jones
Published: Jan 26, 2026

USMNT legend Brad Friedel has explained to GOAL why Christian Pulisic returning to the United States would be a terrible idea for MLS at this stage of the talented forward’s career. ‘Captain America’ has stated that he would like to grace domestic competition in his homeland at some point, but is currently enhancing his superstar status with Serie A giants AC Milan.

Friedel's Fiery Warning: Why MLS Can Wait for Captain America

The notion of Christian Pulisic trading Europe's elite leagues for MLS in his prime? According to USMNT legend Brad Friedel, it's a terrible idea that could stunt his growth and diminish the national team's strength.

Key Points:

  • Brad Friedel strongly advises Christian Pulisic to remain in top European leagues, not MLS, during his peak years.
  • Friedel argues MLS lacks the constant competitive pressure of European football, potentially leading to complacency for star players.
  • Pulisic is currently thriving at AC Milan, but his contract situation and past Premier League links create transfer speculation.
  • The upcoming World Cup offers a massive platform for Pulisic to showcase his talent to potential European suitors.

Friedel's Fiery Warning: Why MLS Can Wait for Captain America

Christian Pulisic is electric. At 27, he's hitting career-best form with AC Milan, emerging as a true talisman in Serie A and the undisputed leader for the USMNT. As Lionel Messi continues to elevate MLS's profile, the natural question arises: could Pulisic be next? Don't even think about it, warns former USMNT goalkeeper Brad Friedel.

Friedel's message is unequivocal: for Pulisic and other top American talents, the cutthroat environment of European football is non-negotiable right now. He views MLS as a