Report: USA's Christian Pulisic faces weeks‑long microfracture layoff

On a rainy Monday in the World Cup knockout stage, USA forward Christian Pulisic limped off after a clash with Belgium, and a report now confirms a bone bruise and a microfracture of the tibia/fibula that will sideline him for several weeks. The injury will keep him out for several weeks as he races to be fit for the start of AC Milan's 2026‑27 season. The setback threatens his preparation for the Italian club's upcoming campaign. The Athletic report states that Pulisic suffered the bone bruise and microfracture during the 4‑1 loss to Belgium, which eliminated the United States' campaign at the last‑16 stage. The match ended the United States' World Cup run. Following the Belgium game, Pulisic was seen on crutches, underscoring the severity of his condition. Medical staff confirmed the need for an extended recovery period before he can return to full training.

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The injury occurred in the second half when Pulisic kicked the back of Youri Tielemans' leg while lining up a shot on the edge of the box. The incident involved midfielder Youri Tielemans. He tried to run it off but was hobbling as the USA fell 3‑1 and was substituted shortly after. Earlier in the tournament, Pulisic endured a calf injury in the first half of the opening win against Paraguay, missed the subsequent Paraguay match, played only a few minutes against Turkiye, and completed 87 minutes against Bosnia Herzegovina in the Round of 32.

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Pulisic said, "I just totally twisted my ankle and my knee in one play," adding, "I have time to rest." He later expressed disappointment, noting he recorded one goal and one assist at the tournament. Overall, the cascade of injuries stripped the USA of its main attacking spark, and Pulisic now faces a weeks‑long layoff while striving to regain fitness for AC Milan's upcoming season.