Donovan’s Disappointment with USMNT Performance

The recent performance of the U.S. men’s national team has left football legend Landon Donovan feeling quite unsettled.

In fact, he mentioned that he’s enjoying his second bottle of wine but still hasn’t managed to shake off the disappointment after the team suffered a 4-0 loss to Switzerland. Donovan took to social media to express his feelings.

Regarded as the greatest U.S. male footballer ever, with impressive stats—57 goals and 58 assists in 157 appearances—he seems troubled that the current squad isn’t maximizing opportunities like the Gold Cup to learn from top players, notably Christian Pulisic, as they prepare for next year’s World Cup.

During a recent broadcast discussing the UEFA Nations League, Donovan voiced his frustration: “It frustrates me to think about players on vacation who aren’t interested in participating in the Gold Cup.”

He emphasized the significance of representing one’s country and referenced the dedication shown by Cristiano Ronaldo, who recently led Portugal to victory. “If you don’t take this seriously as a professional footballer, then maybe you shouldn’t be wearing that jersey,” he stated.

While Donovan didn’t call him out directly, Pulisic stands out as the main player who, despite not being injured, is skipping matches. After a demanding 34-game season with AC Milan, Pulisic has opted out of the Gold Cup.

Although he hasn’t publicly responded to Donovan, Pulisic liked a social media post from his father, which criticized Donovan for having taken time off during his own career.

The USMNT has a chance to impress both fans and Donovan in their next match against Trinidad Tobago on Sunday.

For now, it seems Donovan may have to find a more suitable distraction if two bottles of wine don’t cut it.