IRVINE, Calif. — Christian Pulisic’s availability for the U.S. men’s national team’s next World Cup match remains uncertain following an injury sustained during Friday’s opening game against Paraguay. Pulisic exited at halftime after suffering a blow to the back of his left calf, an area he had previously injured during training earlier that week.

On Monday, Pulisic did not join the full team training session, instead participating in a modified individual workout away from the group. He was absent from the 30 minutes of practice time open to the media, and a U.S. Soccer spokesperson confirmed the midfielder was engaged in tailored rehabilitation exercises. Despite his limited involvement, head coach Mauricio Pochettino described Pulisic as “good” in brief remarks to reporters.

Pulisic had been instrumental for the U.S. during the first half of the 4-1 victory over Paraguay, recording an assist and standing out as one of the team’s best performers. However, according to Pochettino, the decision to substitute him at halftime was made late as the player struggled to continue. “When he finished the first half, started to get cold, he cannot walk,” Pochettino explained after the match. “Hope that it’s not a big issue … in the last minute we needed to change and do the substitution. Now, I think it was better. Hope for the next game he will be available.”

Pulisic himself expressed optimism about his condition following the game, indicating he expected to recover in time for the team’s upcoming fixture. The U.S. national team is scheduled to play next on Friday afternoon in Seattle. The coaching staff continues to monitor Pulisic’s status closely as they prepare for the remainder of the tournament.