Christian Pulisic is aiming to return to play for the U.S. men’s national team in their final group-stage match of the World Cup against Turkey on Thursday night. The AC Milan midfielder missed the previous match against Australia due to a left calf injury but has since resumed full training with the team after working out individually last week.

Pulisic initially left the field at halftime during the U.S.’ opening match against Paraguay nearly two weeks ago after sustaining the calf issue during training. He described feeling a "little something" but never feared a serious setback, emphasizing confidence in a quick recovery. “I was pushing and I was really close to trying to be available for the last game,” he said, acknowledging that while he was able to play through pain in the first half against Paraguay, he ultimately was not ready to participate against Australia.

While the match against Turkey holds no competitive stakes—both teams have either secured advancement or been eliminated—the encounter provides an opportunity for Pulisic to regain match fitness ahead of the round of 32 game scheduled for July 1 in Santa Clara, likely against Bosnia-Herzegovina. Pulisic noted the improbability of playing a full 90 minutes immediately upon returning but hopes to contribute at least partially. He stated, “I’ll discuss that with my coaches and the medical staff,” hinting at a possible appearance coming off the bench.

U.S. head coach Mauricio Pochettino confirmed that Pulisic is available for selection but has not finalized his role for the match. The coach mentioned ongoing discussions with medical personnel to determine whether Pulisic will start or enter as a substitute. Meanwhile, Pochettino indicated that several players who have accumulated yellow cards are unlikely to start, preserving them from suspension risks moving forward.

The U.S. has already clinched first place in the group, and Turkey has been eliminated due to tiebreaker rules, which has led to expectations that Pochettino may rest key starters and provide playing time to reserve players. Central defender Chris Richards welcomed this approach, expressing confidence that the team’s rigorous training regime will maintain sharpness and fitness even with adjusted lineups.

Pulisic remains positive about the team’s prospects regardless of his injury absence. He praised the squad's depth and ability to perform strongly without him, reflecting on the 2-0 win over Australia as evidence of collective strength. “It’s not surprising to me. I see what this team can do. We have depth, we have really strong players in a lot of positions,” he said, highlighting the team’s resilience and unity.

As the U.S. prepares for its knockout-stage campaign, attention will focus on Pulisic’s readiness and how his involvement can bolster the team’s attacking options after an enforced layoff.