Landon Donovan just did what Landon Donovan does best: say the thing nobody else on American soccer television will say out loud. Days after the US Men’s National Team was bounced from its own home World Cup in a lopsided 4-1 loss to Belgium, the former USMNT star used his podcast to deliver pointed criticism of Christian Pulisic, the player who was supposed to be the face of this tournament.
What Donovan actually said
On the July 8 episode of “Unfiltered Soccer,” the podcast Donovan co-hosts with fellow USMNT legend Tim Howard, the criticism landed in a specific and somewhat unexpected place. Donovan didn’t go after Pulisic’s talent or his effort on the pitch. Instead, he took aim at the people around him.
Donovan pointed to Pulisic’s entourage, including agents and family members, arguing they’ve mishandled relationships with sponsors, teammates, and media. He cited what he described as a pattern of unapproachable behavior and repeated refusals to engage with basic requests for interviews or interactions.
According to Donovan, multiple sponsors have grown frustrated with how Pulisic’s camp manages access and communication. Several teammates have reportedly voiced similar discontent behind closed doors.
