Christian Pulisic resumed training with the U.S. men’s national team on Monday after missing the week leading up to Friday’s World Cup match against Australia due to a left calf injury. The AC Milan midfielder, who played the first half of the group-opening win over Paraguay on June 12 before leaving the game with stiffness, had not participated fully in recent sessions, instead doing limited gym work, resistance training, and light ball exercises.

During the 15-minute practice period open to media, Pulisic took part in warm-ups and ball drills, though the team did not provide an official update on his injury or his availability for Thursday’s upcoming group-stage finale against Turkey. Given that the U.S. had already secured first place in the group following the win over Australia, there is little urgency to rush Pulisic back before the round of 32 on July 1.

Midfielder Alex Zendejas, a close friend of Pulisic, acknowledged the challenges of dealing with a minor injury during an important tournament, emphasizing the team’s approach of focusing on support rather than pressing on the injury itself. “It’s a tough situation when you’re going through a small little knock during an important tournament when everyone wants to be at their 100 percent,” Zendejas said. “We try to get his mind off it and just be there for him.”

Other player availability concerns emerged in training as well. Midfielder Cristian Roldan was absent due to a muscle strain and is considered day to day. The team did not specify which muscle was affected. Forward Folarin Balogun missed part of warm-ups and was seen resting in a tent but is reportedly undergoing extra recovery with no serious concerns. Despite carrying a yellow card, Balogun expressed his desire to play against Turkey, while also acknowledging the need to be cautious to avoid suspension for the knockout stage. “Of course I want to play, but it’s also important to be smart,” Balogun said. “I don’t want to pick up a yellow card and miss the round of 32.”

With the U.S. team in a secure position, balancing recovery and readiness will be key as they prepare for the elimination rounds. Pulisic’s return to training signals progress, but whether he will see playing time against Turkey remains uncertain.