The **2026 World Cup** is still a ways off, but the heat of international rivalry is already simmering between **AC Milan** teammates **Christian Pulisic** and **Santiago Gimenez**. These close friends, who bond over **NFL** and barbecues, have a clear message for each other: friendship stops when national pride is on the line. "If he puts on the shirt of the USA, he's a rival... if I need to kill him, I kill him!" declared **Gimenez** with a laugh, setting the stage for a potentially explosive clash.
Key Points:
- Christian Pulisic (USA) and Santiago Gimenez (Mexico) are AC Milan teammates and close friends.
- Their off-pitch bond includes watching NFL games and barbecues.
- Both stars anticipate a fierce rivalry if USMNT and El Tri meet at the 2026 World Cup.
- Gimenez predicts the USMNT could reach the quarter-finals on home soil.
- Detailed fixtures for both host nations revealed for the tournament's opening stages.
From San Siro Squad to World Stage Showdown
Christian Pulisic, the talismanic **USMNT** captain, arrived at **AC Milan** in **2023**, quickly establishing himself as a key figure for the Rossoneri. His goal contributions have been impressive, making him a consistent threat.
Santiago Gimenez, Mexico's prolific striker, joined **Milan** in **February 2025** following a big-money move from **Eredivisie** giants **Feyenoord**. Despite currently nursing an ankle injury, the deep-lying forward is eager to prove his worth.
Their shared American roots have forged a strong bond between **Pulisic** and **Gimenez**. They often spend time together off the pitch, indulging in typical American pastimes like **NFL** (Pulisic supports the **Jets**, Gimenez the **Dolphins**) and barbecues. This camaraderie, however, takes a backseat when national colors are involved.
Friendship on Hold: The Mexico vs. USA Dynamic
The intensity of the **USA** vs. **Mexico** football rivalry is legendary, and it's a topic that frequently sparks playful arguments in the **AC Milan** dressing room. **Gimenez** openly admitted to **ESPN** that while **Pulisic** is a great friend, the dynamic shifts entirely when they represent their countries.
He emphasized the deep-seated rivalry, noting that fans relish victories against their continental neighbors. **Mexico's Gold Cup** win against the **USMNT** last year serves as a potent reminder of the passion involved, a win that brought immense joy to Mexican supporters.
Host Nation Hopes: Can USMNT and El Tri Soar?
With the **2026 World Cup** co-hosted by the **United States** and **Mexico**, both players recognize the immense advantage of playing on home turf. **Gimenez** expressed his excitement, highlighting the presence of family, familiar stadiums, and passionate home crowds as powerful motivators.
He holds high expectations for both nations. In a bold prediction, **Gimenez** stated that the **USMNT** possesses a strong enough squad to potentially reach the **quarter-finals** of the tournament. The prospect of facing **Pulisic** and the **USA** in such a high-stakes match is something **Gimenez** openly embraces, knowing the fans would savor every moment.
The Road to Glory: USMNT & Mexico's Group Stage Gauntlet
Mexico has been drawn into **Group A** for the **2026 World Cup**. Their campaign kicks off on **June 11** against **South Africa** at the iconic **Estadio Azteca**. They will then face **South Korea** and a winner from a **UEFA** play-off path.
The **United States**, with **Pulisic** leading the charge, finds itself in **Group D**. Their opening match is scheduled for **June 12** against **Paraguay** at **SoFi Stadium** in California. Following this, they travel to Seattle for a clash with **Australia** before returning to Los Angeles to take on another **European** play-off qualifier.
Both teams face challenging but navigable paths, setting the stage for what could be an unforgettable tournament on home soil for both **Pulisic** and **Gimenez**.
