The 41-year-old superstar, who joined Al-Nassr in early 2023, has found himself at the center of a growing controversy, one that could see him facing potential disciplinary action.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s tenure in Saudi Arabia is entering an unprecedented chapter. The 41-year-old superstar, who joined Al-Nassr in early 2023, has found himself at the center of a growing controversy, one that could see him facing potential disciplinary action. His recent absence from consecutive matches has sent shockwaves through the Saudi Pro League.

On Monday, he skipped Al-Nassr’s 1-0 win against Al-Riyadh, and just days later, he was missing again as his team triumphed 2-0 over Al-Ittihad thanks to goals from Sadio Mane and Angelo Gabriel. According to Portuguese daily A Bola, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has taken this stand due to unpaid salaries—a staggering sum reportedly just under $23.6 million per month, totaling over $236 million per season.

“Cristiano has realized that there has been no change in the attitude towards him from the PIF fund… so much so that, in addition to the lack of investment in the transfer market, there continue to be major delays in the payment of salaries to the club’s players, staff and employees,” revealed A Bola. The striker reportedly stated he would have played had his back wages been received, highlighting a rare defiance from a player often seen as supremely professional.

The Saudi Pro League appears ready to facilitate Ronaldo’s departure this summer, despite his global stature. Various reports from England suggest that league officials are considering bringing in new stars like Mohamed Salah or Bruno Fernandes, signaling a strategic shift aimed at maintaining the league’s international appeal with players still at the peak of their careers.

“The Saudi Pro League is structured around a simple principle: every club operates independently under the same rules… No individual – however significant – determines decisions beyond their own club,” a league spokesperson told BBC Sport. This statement underscores that even someone of the Portuguese’s stature cannot dictate recruitment or financial decisions beyond Al-Nassr’s management.

Behind the scenes: Rivalries and transfers

Ronaldo’s frustrations are compounded by the league’s ongoing competitive reshaping. Al-Hilal, also owned by the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), recently acquired Karim Benzema, Ronaldo’s former Real Madrid teammate, who marked his debut with a sensational hat-trick. Meanwhile, Al-Nassr’s recent transfer activity has been criticized as insufficient, especially compared to rivals who have spent heavily to strengthen their squads.

“Recent transfer activity demonstrates that independence clearly. One club strengthened in a particular way. Another chose a different approach. Those were club decisions, taken within approved financial parameters,” the Saudi Pro League added.

Despite his absence, Al-Nassr has won back-to-back matches, closing the gap with Al-Hilal to just a single point in the title race. Ronaldo himself has been prolific this season, scoring 17 league goals in 18 matches, still chasing the historic milestone of 1,000 senior career goals, currently sitting on 961.

The sanctions question

While Ronaldo’s protest centers on finances and club management, his absence without a medical or technical justification may lead to formal sanctions. London-based Arabic newspaper, Asharq Al-Awsat, reports that continued refusal to play could trigger disciplinary measures, including financial deductions or fines. This situation puts the legendary forward in a delicate position: balancing professional principles, personal financial expectations, and the scrutiny of an entire league.

Long after his high-profile exit and his move into a new chapter of his career, the Real Madrid superstar remains at the center of a legal storm that continues to haunt the club that once built its entire project around him.

The saga between Kylian Mbappe and Paris Saint-Germain refuses to fade quietly into history. Long after his high-profile exit and his move into a new chapter of his career, the Real Madrid superstar remains at the center of a legal storm that continues to haunt the club that once built its entire project around him. While many assumed the conflict had reached its conclusion, new developments suggest the dispute is entering yet another dramatic phase.

Mbappe’s name remains synonymous with PSG’s modern era, and even now, his shadow still looms over the club. This time, the controversy has resurfaced not on the pitch, but in courtrooms and legal documents, where millions of dollars are still at stake.

The legal conflict between PSG and Mbappe dates back to the final months of his contract, which ended in the summer of 2024. After his departure, the French forward accused the club of failing to pay various salaries, bonuses, and contractual obligations.

In December 2025, the Paris labor tribunal delivered a decisive ruling in favor of the player. The court ordered the French giant to pay nearly $66.4 million, including around $60 million in unpaid wages and bonuses, as well as additional compensation tied to accrued leave and interest. Despite the ruling, the dispute never truly closed.

The hidden reason revealed

While the Parisians complied with part of the judgment, a crucial portion of the money remained unpaid. The club settled the $60 million related to salary and bonuses but failed to pay the remaining $6.4 million tied to paid leave and legal interest.

That unresolved sum is now the center of a new escalation in the case. According to L’Equipe, Mbappe’s legal team recently sent a bailiff to PSG’s headquarters with a formal demand for immediate payment. The club was given an eight-day deadline to settle the outstanding amount or face serious legal consequences.

“Discussions are underway with the player’s representatives on the terms of payment of the remaining sums,” the club stated. “All salaries and bonuses owed to Kylian Mbappe have been paid in full by Paris Saint-Germain.” However, the Frenchman’s camp sees the matter differently.

Bailiffs, deadlines, and what PSG risks losing

The arrival of a bailiff at PSG’s offices marks a dramatic escalation in the legal battle. The order demands that the remaining $6.4 million be paid within eight days, or the authorities could move to seize assets directly from the club’s accounts. Legal experts suggest this is not a symbolic gesture. If PSG fails to comply, enforcement measures could be triggered quickly, potentially embarrassing the club on a global stage.

The case has become one of the most high-profile financial disputes between a player and a club in modern soccer, underlining the growing power players have in legal battles over contracts and compensation.

In a season defined by relentless schedules, mounting pressure, and tactical evolution across the continent, Christian Pulisic has become a central figure in one of European soccer’s most remarkable campaigns.

In a season defined by relentless schedules, mounting pressure, and tactical evolution across the continent, Christian Pulisic has become a central figure in one of European soccer’s most remarkable campaigns. His club has quietly built a reputation for inevitability, consistency, and resilience; qualities that have placed it among the continent’s most elite sides.

While rivals across Europe’s biggest leagues stumble under the weight of expectations, Milan has continued to defy the chaos. And now, as winter tightens its grip on the soccer calendar, Pulisic finds himself linked to a rare statistical milestone that underlines just how extraordinary this season has been for the Rossoneri.

Across Europe’s top five leagues—the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, Bundesliga, and Ligue 1—consistency has been the rarest currency. Injuries, fixture congestion, and tactical experimentation have derailed even the strongest squads. But only three clubs across Europe’s top five leagues have suffered just one league defeat this season.

Those clubs are Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, and Christian Pulisic’s AC Milan. This statistic places the Rossoneri in an elite trio, highlighting their sustained dominance in a campaign where most contenders have faltered multiple times. It is not just about brilliance; it is about avoiding collapse, managing pressure, and grinding out results week after week.

How Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund’s seasons intertwined

Bayern Munich’s season has felt almost mechanical. The Bavarians’ structure, intensity, and attacking firepower have overwhelmed opponents across Germany. Their lone defeat came in a rare off-day against Augsburg on January 24, 2026, when defensive errors and missed opportunities punished their usually flawless system. However, since that 2-1 setback, Bayern has reasserted its authority, reminding the Bundesliga why it remains the benchmark.

Meanwhile, Borussia Dortmund’s single defeat carries a familiar storyline. Niko Kovac’s only loss came away at Bayern Munich on October 18, 2025, a 2-1 loss that has long defined the Bundesliga title race.

Christian Pulisic’s Milan: Italy’s relentless contender

Then there is Milan, whose season began in a completely different emotional register. When the Red and Blacks opened their campaign with a 2-1 home defeat to newly promoted Cremonese on August 23, 2025, many feared the worst.

It was a painful déjà vu—a flashback to a previous season many supporters wanted to forget. A team that had finished eighth the year before seemed destined for another turbulent cycle. San Siro felt restless, the narrative felt familiar, and doubts surrounded Massimiliano Allegri’s rebuild.

But soccer seasons often hinge on strange turning points. And in retrospect, that defeat may have been a blessing in disguise, especially as Milan’s story has been built on balance and belief. Christian Pulisic has been one of the defining figures in their attack, combining creativity, goals, and leadership in a season that has reignited their Scudetto ambitions.

From early crisis to continuity: Allegri’s unbeaten run

What followed that opening-day loss has been nothing short of remarkable. Milan has not lost a single Serie A match since that defeat. With their victory in Bologna, it extended its unbeaten run to 22 consecutive league matches, a sequence unmatched anywhere in Europe’s top leagues during the 2025-26 season. Allegri’s side now holds the longest active unbeaten streak on the continent, standing above Bayern and Dortmund in terms of sheer continuity.

The historical echoes are impossible to ignore. The last time Milan went on such a run in a single season was during the legendary 1992-93 campaign under Fabio Capello, when the team reached 23 matches without defeat. Interestingly, Milan’s unbeaten run will now not be extended by victory, but by absence. The club’s Matchday 24 fixture against Como was postponed, meaning they won’t have to step onto the pitch to defend their record.

Christian Pulisic and Milan were nowhere to be found on the Serie A Matchday 24 schedule, despite being deeply involved in the title race.

In a weekend where every major contender took the field, one absence immediately raised eyebrows. Christian Pulisic and Milan were nowhere to be found on the Serie A Matchday 24 schedule, despite being deeply involved in the title race.

For supporters and observers alike, the silence is striking. No kickoff, no lineup, no buildup—just a conspicuous gap in a weekend packed with fixtures. As rivals continued their campaigns, questions began to swirl: why are the Rossoneri absent, and what is really happening behind the scenes?

The 2025-26 Serie A season has evolved into a tense battle at the top, with Napoli, Inter, and Milan separated by narrow margins. Pulisic’s side sits five points behind Inter while chasing the Scudetto, and every matchday carries enormous weight. Yet, while Juventus, Lazio, Roma, and others played crucial fixtures, Milan stands still; an anomaly in a league where momentum is everything.

The reason finally revealed

The answer lies far from soccer itself. San Siro, Milan’s historic home stadium, is unavailable because it hosts the opening ceremony of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics on February 6, 2026.

With massive staging infrastructure, rehearsals, and security measures occupying the venue, hosting a soccer match was impossible. As a result, the scheduled home fixture against Como was postponed and rescheduled. The new date was confirmed as Wednesday, February 18, 2026, turning what should have been a routine weekend match into a midweek clash.

Before the postponement was finalized, Serie A even explored a radical alternative: staging the match in Perth, Australia. But the plan collapsed amid financial and logistical concerns. “Plans for Perth to host the first-ever official European league match for points outside its national borders are off,” the league stated, citing risks and approval complications.

The rescheduling has created a brutal calendar stretch for Milan. Massimiliano Allegri’s players will play three league matches in ten days, a scenario that often determines title races. Fixture congestion means rotation dilemmas, fatigue risks, and a greater likelihood of injuries—especially for key players. Ironically, the postponement also gives the Rossoneri a game in hand in the standings, a psychological and mathematical advantage if they convert it into three points.

Strategic pause for Christian Pulisic

While the schedule disruption caused frustration, it also delivered something rare: time. Christian Pulisic has been dealing with bursitis near the hip, an inflammation issue that forced him out of recent matches. Massimiliano Allegri confirmed the situation, saying “Pulisic has bursitis that’s bothering him,” adding hope that the winger would be “back on track in the coming days.”

Because of the rescheduled match and fixture gaps, Pulisic and his teammate, Rafael Leao, have received a 20-day recovery window, an almost unheard-of luxury during a title race. This period is being treated as a controlled reset—focused on therapy, load management, and restoring rhythm rather than risking further setbacks.

Cristiano Ronaldo may have been missing from the pitch once again, but his shadow loomed large as Al-Nassr navigated another turbulent night.

Cristiano Ronaldo may have been missing from the pitch once again, but his shadow loomed large as Al-Nassr navigated another turbulent night. Even with the Portuguese star dominating headlines for his ongoing standoff, a fresh issue emerged involving its second winter arrival, Abdullah Al-Hamdan — one that has pulled both Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad into an unexpected dispute and added another layer of pressure on the club.

On the surface, Al-Nassr appeared to be stabilizing. A strong performance, a clean sheet, and growing fan unity suggested resilience. Yet behind the scenes, a new controversy was quietly forming, one that threatened to complicate matters far beyond Cristiano Ronaldo’s self-imposed strike.

The veteran’s decision to miss a second consecutive Saudi Pro League fixture continued to dominate the narrative. His absence against Al-Ittihad was not due to injury or fitness concerns, but rather a calculated protest aimed at the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF)’s handling of elite clubs.

Ronaldo has scored 91 goals in 95 league appearances since joining Al-Nassr, making his refusal to play impossible to ignore. Despite returning to training, he was left out of the matchday squad entirely, signaling that tensions remain unresolved. “Ronaldo is not upset with Al-Nassr,” Fabrizio Romano reported. “His issue is with how the PIF manages and prioritizes certain clubs.” That distinction has been echoed by Portuguese media, which has consistently framed the conflict as institutional rather than personal.

The real storm breaks: The Al-Hamdan controversy

While attention remained fixed on Ronaldo, a quieter but potentially explosive issue emerged midway through the week. Al-Hilal officially filed a complaint regarding Abdullah Al-Hamdan’s contract termination, arguing that the striker’s deal was still valid when he appeared for Al-Nassr.

According to Arriyadiyah, the club believes the termination violated regulations, as the contract was due to expire on Friday, February 6, the same day Al-Hamdan featured in the league match. The Blue Waves contend that the player unilaterally ended his contract via email, a move they describe as an attempt to circumvent league rules. Late on the final night of the winter transfer window, Al-Nassr announced Al-Hamdan’s signing on a free transfer — a decision now under scrutiny.

Al-Ittihad joins the dispute

The situation escalated further when Al-Ittihad also filed an official protest, questioning Al-Hamdan’s eligibility to play in the match against them. Saudi journalist Ahmed Al-Ajlan confirmed that the protest was submitted to the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF), adding fuel to an already tense rivalry. At the heart of the issue is timing. The 26-year-old forward’s contract expiration date and his immediate registration with Al-Nassr created a legal gray area — one rival clubs believe should be examined closely.

Despite the growing noise, Al-Nassr reportedly remains calm. Journalist Ali Al-Anzi confirmed that all official approvals were secured and that Al-Hamdan’s participation was fully legal. “Abdullah Al-Hamdan’s registration is 100% legitimate,” Al-Anzi stated, adding that no sanctions are expected for the club.

Another reliable insider, Abdulaziz Al-Osaimi, clarified that any potential violation would apply only to the player, not to Al-Nassr — a crucial distinction that could shield the club from sporting penalties.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Angelo Gabriel were at the center of a dramatic night in Riyadh, even though only one of them actually stepped onto the pitch.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Angelo Gabriel were at the center of a dramatic night in Riyadh, even though only one of them actually stepped onto the pitch. As Al-Nassr faced Al-Ittihad in a high-stakes Saudi Pro League clash, the spotlight was fixed not just on the game, but on a growing storm surrounding the club, its ownership structure, and its most iconic figure. Amid swirling rumors, vocal fan support, and an emotional moment late in the game, the night became far more than just a 2-0 victory; it turned into a statement of unity, defiance, and symbolism.

Ronaldo’s absence dominated headlines long before kickoff. The Portuguese superstar missed his second consecutive Saudi Pro League match, not because of injury or rotation, but as part of a self-imposed protest against the Saudi Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) management of the league’s top clubs.

The 41-year-old forward, who has scored 91 goals in 95 league appearances for Al-Nassr, reportedly feels that the PIF has favored rivals—particularly Al Hilal—during recent transfer windows. The January signing of Karim Benzema by Al-Hilal, contrasted with the club’s modest additions, intensified those frustrations and pushed Ronaldo toward a symbolic stand.

“Ronaldo is not upset with Al-Nassr. His issue is with how the PIF manages and prioritizes certain clubs,” various outlets report, capturing the essence of the dispute. The message is clear: The veteran’s protest is not directed at his teammates or the coaching staff, but at the broader power structure shaping Saudi soccer.

Despite returning to training ahead of the match, Ronaldo was left out of the squad entirely, with Sadio Mane, Kingsley Coman, and Joao Felix forming the attacking trio against Al-Ittihad. The absence of both Ronaldo and Benzema—now at Al-Hilal—meant that two of the league’s biggest stars were missing from a fixture that was supposed to showcase Saudi soccer’s elite.

Fans and teammates rally around their captain

Inside Al-Awwal Park, the response from supporters was immediate and emotional. In the seventh minute, a symbolic reference to Ronaldo’s legendary shirt number, thousands of fans raised banners bearing his name and number, chanting in unison. The gesture was a powerful reminder that, for many, Ronaldo remains the heartbeat of Al-Nassr, regardless of off-field politics.

On the pitch, the Knight of Najd delivered a disciplined performance despite the distractions. The first half was tense and goalless, with both teams cautious and organized. The breakthrough finally arrived late in the second half when Sadio Mane converted a penalty in the 84th minute, giving the home side a deserved lead.

As the visitors pushed forward in search of an equalizer, Al-Nassr struck again on the counterattack. Angelo Gabriel sealed the victory in stoppage time, finishing calmly to make it 2-0 and keep his club firmly in the title race, just one point behind Al-Hilal. But it was what happened after that goal that truly captured the world’s attention.

The moment that went viral

In a poignant and symbolic gesture, Angelo Gabriel sprinted toward the corner flag and launched into Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic celebration. The leap, the outstretched arms, the roar toward the crowd—it was unmistakable.

The tribute instantly went viral, with fans praising the young Brazilian winger for honoring his absent teammate. It was a moment of solidarity that transcended tactics and scorelines, symbolizing Ronaldo’s enduring influence on the squad even during his protest. The celebration added emotional weight to an already charged atmosphere, sending a clear message that Ronaldo’s presence is felt even when he is not on the pitch.

With the 2026 World Cup approaching, Carlo Ancelotti is already shaping the spine of his Brazil project.

With the 2026 World Cup approaching, Carlo Ancelotti is already shaping the spine of his Brazil project. The Italian coach has reportedly decided that Vinicius Junior and Raphinha are certain to make the cut, pillars of the new cycle and symbols of continuity in attack. Yet as the list of guaranteed names begins to solidify, one question continues to dominate the national conversation: Will Neymar make it?

Ancelotti’s early clarity offers reassurance, but it also exposes the ruthlessness of modern international soccer. Brazil is not being built on reputation alone, even when that reputation belongs to the most famous forward of a generation.

Since taking charge, the Italian tactician has been deliberate in both tone and selection. While he is believed to be close to finalizing his squad framework, the door remains open for late movement. Speaking publicly in Rio de Janeiro, the coach made it clear that nothing is entirely locked. “The list is not closed,” Ancelotti said, stressing that form, fitness, and intensity across the European season will ultimately determine final decisions.

According to ESPN Brasil, as many as 11 players are already viewed as guaranteed selections if they remain fit, forming the backbone of the squad. That core includes Alisson, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhaes, Casemiro, Bruno Guimaraes, Vinicius Junior, Raphinha, Rodrygo, Estevao, Matheus Cunha, and Gabriel Martinelli; a blend of leadership, explosiveness, and tactical reliability.

Vinicius and Raphinha, in particular, are seen as non-negotiable. Their consistency at club level and compatibility with Ancelotti’s system make them automatic choices in a tournament where margins are unforgiving.

What about Neymar?

However, Neymar’s place in the Brazil squad is not guaranteed. The 34-year-old remains in a race against time following knee surgery and a prolonged struggle to regain rhythm. While he has returned to full training, doubts persist about whether he can withstand the physical and tactical demands of a modern World Cup.

Ancelotti has been firm and unsentimental. “Modern football does not only demand talent,” the coach said. “But also, physical condition and intensity. If Neymar deserves to be included, if he’s playing well and is better than the alternatives, he will go to the World Cup. But only if he is 100%, not 80%.” That statement has become the defining line of Neymar’s candidacy.

Where and whether Neymar fits

Tactically, Neymar no longer fits neatly into Ancelotti’s structure. He is not viewed as a winger, nor as a traditional No. 9. Instead, the coach sees him, if selected, as a central, hybrid option, operating between lines. “I think he has to play centrally,” Ancelotti explained. “Not on the wing, because in modern soccer the wingers have to help out defensively.”

The issue is competition. That role is already contested by players like Raphinha, Matheus Cunha, Joao Pedro, and potentially Endrick – younger, fitter, and fully integrated into the system. For the first time in his international career, the former Barcelona and PSG star is not the default solution. He is an option who must prove superiority, not merely suitability.

There is cautious optimism inside Milan’s walls as Christian Pulisic edges closer to a potential return, yet certainty remains deliberately withheld

There is cautious optimism inside Milan’s walls as Christian Pulisic edges closer to a potential return, yet certainty remains deliberately withheld. After weeks defined by frustration, absences, and improvised solutions, the club has received a positive update on the American’s recovery. Still, as preparations slowly turn toward the upcoming Serie A trip to Pisa, one unresolved factor continues to hover over the decision-making process, preventing any guarantees.

Christian Pulisic’s importance to Milan has been obvious all season. Even when absent, his influence shapes tactical choices, rotations, and risk management. With the calendar offering a rare pause, the club finally has breathing room. However, patience, not urgency, is the guiding principle.

This campaign has tested the Rossoneri’s depth and resilience more than expected. Under Massimiliano Allegri, continuity has been elusive, particularly in attack. Two players, Rafael Leao and Pulisic, above all others, have symbolized this instability, repeatedly sidelined and rarely available together.

When one returned, the other disappeared. When the squad looked ready to build momentum, another setback followed. The result has been a fractured rhythm that limited Milan’s ability to consistently field its strongest attacking configuration.

Despite that, recent results have been encouraging. The comfortable victory against Bologna offered reassurance, even though neither of the star wingers played a decisive role. The American star was not included in the squad at all, while Leao remained unused on the bench.

Pulisic works on recovering while others rest

Following that win, Allegri granted his players several days off, a reward made possible by a break in the schedule. Officially, Milanello was closed. In reality, it was anything but empty. According to Calciomercato, a small group voluntarily reported for individual recovery sessions, using the downtime as an opportunity rather than a holiday. Among them were Christian Pulisic, Rafael Leao, Alexis Saelemaekers, and Santiago Gimenez – all dealing with varying physical issues.

“For the star pair, Pulisic and Leao, this break in fixtures is a gift,” noted Calciomercato, underlining how valuable the extra days could prove ahead of Pisa. This quiet commitment speaks volumes about mentality. It is not the first time this group has worked through scheduled rest, and it reinforces how seriously the situation is being treated internally.

The hidden detail finally emerges

Only now does the full picture begin to take shape. The 27-year-old USMNT international has been following a specific recovery plan carefully designed by Allegri and the medical staff, intending to make him available for the match against Pisa. Reports suggest he is progressing well, close to full condition, and increasingly likely to rejoin the squad.

Nonetheless, Milan will not rush the final step. La Gazzetta dello Sport explains that the American’s situation remains the most delicate, with daily monitoring in place to avoid any recurrence. The strategy is clear: zero unnecessary risk, even if that means delaying his return by another match.

Here is where the final variable enters. As per Il Corriere dello Sport, the club’s approach to Pulisic’s return depends heavily on whether Christopher Nkunku can once again be decisive. If the French forward maintains his recent form, the manager can afford patience, managing minutes carefully rather than forcing immediate starts.

“Allegri will ask Nkunku to be decisive again,” wrote Corriere dello Sport, “precisely to give Pulisic and Leao more time to recover.” Nkunku’s situation has shifted dramatically. Once seemingly destined for an exit in January, he is now central to the Red and Blacks’ short-term balance. His recent scoring run, matching his previous 48 league matches in just six games, has reshaped the narrative.

While Ronaldo prepares for one last global campaign, James Rodriguez has chosen a route already taken by Lionel Messi, Thomas Muller, and Son Heung-min.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s final World Cup chapter was always going to be complicated, but the picture has just become even more uncomfortable. As Portugal eyes the 2026 tournament with ambition and urgency, one of its World Cup Group K rivals has quietly strengthened its hand. While Ronaldo prepares for one last global campaign, James Rodriguez has chosen a route already taken by Lionel Messi, Thomas Muller, and Son Heung-min; a move that could reshape the competitive balance long before the tournament kicks off.

This is not just a transfer. It is a strategic decision with international consequences. Match fitness, continuity, and leadership are now firmly on Colombia’s side, and the timing could hardly be more inconvenient for Portugal. In fact, James Rodriguez has never lacked talent. What he has lacked in recent seasons is stability, and that is precisely what this move offers.

The Colombian playmaker, who had been without a club after leaving Mexico late last year, has signed a short-term deal with Minnesota United, designed with a single objective in mind: arriving at the 2026 World Cup sharp, healthy, and influential. The contract runs until June 2026, with an option to extend through the end of the season, ensuring regular play during the most critical buildup of his international career.

“The signing will allow Rodriguez to stay match-fit ahead of the 2026 World Cup,” confirmed official club communication, underlining the intent behind the move. At 34, Rodriguez understands the margins. Training alone was not an option. Rotating between short-term projects was not ideal. He needed minutes, responsibility, and rhythm, and he found them in Major League Soccer, following a path increasingly chosen by elite veterans.

What this means for Portugal and Ronaldo

The move marks the thirteenth club of his career, continuing a journey that has taken him through Portugal, Spain, Germany, England, France, South America, and now the United States. “James is a player whose quality, vision, and experience at the highest levels of the game are unquestioned,” said sporting director Khaled El-Ahmad in a statement published by the club. “At the same time, this move is about collective strength — not about putting everything on one individual.”

Rodriguez echoed that sentiment. “I’m very happy for this new chapter in my life,” he said. “I hope to be at my best so I can bring joy to this city and to all of the people who are putting their faith in me.”

This signing is about more than MLS exposure. Rodriguez remains Colombia’s captain, the emotional and tactical leader of a team that reached the Copa America final in 2024 and continues to mature under stable management.

For Portugal, the concern is simple. While the Al-Nassr star prepares for the grand competition at an advanced age, one of his direct rivals now has its leader settled, fit, and central to a project built around him. Colombia’s clarity contrasts sharply with the uncertainty surrounding the Selecao’s long-term structure beyond Ronaldo.

MLS as the new World Cup preparation ground

Once viewed as a retirement league, MLS has evolved into something far more strategic. Lionel Messi’s influence has changed perceptions, and others have followed. Thomas Muller and Son Heung-min have also opted for the league, drawn by its balance between competitiveness and physical management. Rodriguez’s arrival reinforces a growing trend: MLS as a World Cup launchpad rather than a farewell tour.

Last season alone, the league welcomed multiple European stars, while Messi continued to dominate headlines in Florida. For Colombia, this means their captain will be competing weekly, under controlled workloads, in a league that prioritizes athletic conditioning — a significant advantage over sporadic appearances elsewhere.

Cristiano Ronaldo was meant to be the face of a revolution, the standard-bearer for an entire league, and the centerpiece of a long-term vision. Instead, his Saudi Pro League adventure has entered a phase few anticipated.

Cristiano Ronaldo was meant to be the face of a revolution, the standard-bearer for an entire league, and the centerpiece of a long-term vision. Instead, his Saudi adventure has entered a phase few anticipated. What began in euphoria has quietly evolved into tension, mistrust, and now open defiance. Ronaldo’s recent absence from Al-Nassr‘s league fixtures was not accidental, nor was it physical. It was deliberate — and it has placed his future firmly under the global spotlight.

Behind closed doors, frustration has been building. The Portuguese star, long accustomed to projects designed around his competitive instincts, no longer believes the environment suits his ambitions. A boycott, unprecedented in scale, has become a signal rather than a symptom, raising a question that now dominates soccer discourse: if Ronaldo walks away, where does he go next?

The turning point arrived with a decision that reverberated across the Saudi Pro League. Ronaldo was left out of two key matches, not through injury, rotation, or tactical choice, but by personal design. The absence was a protest, aimed squarely at the Public Investment Fund (PIF), the entity that oversees the country’s most powerful clubs.

According to multiple reports, the veteran believes PIF has failed to act neutrally, favoring certain projects over others and undermining competitive balance. The breaking point came when Karim Benzema moved from one PIF-backed club to another, strengthening a direct rival while Ronaldo’s own side lagged behind. Despite signing a record-breaking contract extension until June 2027, the 41-year-old ace has reportedly prioritized sporting legacy over financial security, even though his deal remains one of the most lucrative in soccer history.

The clubs finally emerge as speculation explodes

Ronaldo’s next destination, should he leave Saudi Arabia, spans continents, philosophies, and career narratives. One path leads back to where it all began. A return to Sporting Lisbon has been widely discussed, not purely for sporting reasons but for symbolic reasons. Lisbon represents origin, identity, and closure. While the financial hurdles would be significant, the emotional pull is undeniable, and the chance to guide a new generation may outweigh economics.

Europe remains a temptation. A return to Real Madrid has been floated, driven by nostalgia and unfinished business. Ronaldo’s history there is unmatched, but tactical concerns and squad dynamics make such a reunion complex rather than inevitable. Elsewhere, Paris Saint-Germain offers glamour, Champions League ambition, and global reach, though the club’s current youth-focused direction casts doubt on the fit. Manchester United, once home, appears all but ruled out after a turbulent second exit that damaged relationships on both sides.

Another option lies in Major League Soccer, a league increasingly positioned as soccer’s global showcase. With Lionel Messi already reigning the league, the commercial and narrative appeal is enormous. The Times reported that “MLS clubs have begun making early enquiries with Ronaldo’s camp,” though any move would likely require a substantial salary reduction. Possible destinations in the US would be LA Galaxy, LAFC, San Diego FC, Sporting Kansas City, and even Messi’s Inter Miami.

Surprisingly, Wydad Casablanca has also emerged as an outside contender, as per WhoScored. Spanish media previously reported interest from the Moroccan giant, offering the five-time Ballon d’Or winner the chance to conquer African soccer while elevating the club’s global stature. While unconventional, the move would grant leadership, legacy, and a new competitive frontier.

Saudi Arabia stay not entirely ruled out?

Despite the public nature of the protest, a complete Saudi exit is not guaranteed. A switch within the league, particularly to a stronger, trophy-ready project such as Al-Hilal, remains theoretically possible, though politically sensitive. Such a move would risk weakening the impact of Ronaldo’s stance, transforming protest into pragmatism.

Still, it’s safe to say that retirement is not on the table. The 41-year-old forward continues to chase the 1,000-goal milestone, while Portugal heads toward the 2026 World Cup as a contender. National team coach Roberto Martínez recently highlighted “25 goals in his last 30 internationals and more than 220 caps” as proof that the veteran remains decisive.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s name usually defines the buildup to any Saudi Pro League blockbuster, especially when Al-Nassr prepares to face a historic rival like Al-Ittihad.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s name usually defines the buildup to any Saudi Pro League blockbuster, especially when Al-Nassr prepares to face a historic rival like Al-Ittihad. Yet as kickoff approaches at Al-Awwal Park, the spotlight has shifted in an unusual direction. Ronaldo is not expected to feature, leaving Al-Nassr to navigate one of the season’s most important fixtures without its talisman. The absence has raised questions across Saudi soccer, fueling speculation that stretches far beyond team sheets and tactical plans.

Al-Nassr enters the match riding momentum, fully aware that victories at this stage of the campaign can tilt an entire title race. Al-Ittihad arrives with its own pressures, defending pride after a turbulent season that has seen upheaval both on and off the pitch. And somewhere in between stands Ronaldo, present in training, present in headlines, but conspicuously absent on matchday.

The meeting between these two sides is not just another league fixture. It is a defining moment in the Saudi Pro League calendar. Al-Nassr now sits third in the standings with 46 points, but is still chasing the summit and refusing to let the leaders escape. Al-Ittihad, meanwhile, occupies sixth place with 34 points, their title defense already unraveling but continental qualification still within reach.

This was supposed to be a night defined by stars. Instead, it has become a night defined by absence. The Portuguese veteran missed the previous league match, but uncertainty lingered. He trained, he traveled, and he was photographed. Still, doubts remained over whether he would step onto the pitch against Al-Ittihad. As hours passed, reports began to align around a single conclusion: Cristiano Ronaldo would not play again.

The reason for Ronaldo’s absence revealed

The truth emerged in the days leading up to kickoff. According to multiple reports, Ronaldo’s absence is not related to injury, but rather to an escalating standoff behind the scenes.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Ronaldo is deliberately sitting out matches as a form of protest. The Portuguese star is said to be unhappy with the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), which owns Al-Nassr alongside several domestic rivals. His frustration centers on what he perceives as unequal investment, particularly during the January transfer window.

While Al-Nassr faced restrictions, Al-Hilal was able to strengthen significantly, including the headline-grabbing arrival of Karim Benzema. That contrast has not gone unnoticed by Ronaldo. “Ronaldo is not upset with Al-Nassr,” Romano reported. “His issue is with how the PIF manages and prioritizes certain clubs.” The message is clear: this is not a soccer decision, but a political one.

Solidarity inside the dressing room

The situation has reportedly created ripples within the club. Portuguese head coach Jorge Jesus has stood firmly behind his captain, even boycotting press conferences in apparent solidarity. Efforts to persuade Ronaldo to reconsider his stance have failed.

As reported by Al-Riyadiyah, “all attempts to secure Cristiano Ronaldo’s participation against Al-Ittihad have failed.” The same source added that the 41-year-old’s frustration also stems from a lack of winter signings and internal restructuring that limited the influence of his trusted administrative circle.

As Al-Nassr prepares to host Al-Ittihad under the lights at Al-Awwal Park, the Saudi Pro League once again finds itself revolving around Cristiano Ronaldo.

As Al-Nassr prepares to host Al-Ittihad under the lights at Al-Awwal Park, the Saudi Pro League once again finds itself revolving around Cristiano Ronaldo. Every major fixture in the league seems to bend toward his presence, or, increasingly, his absence. This clash carries layers of intrigue that go far beyond form, tactics, or rivalry.

For Al-Nassr, this match represents an opportunity to tighten the title race. For Al-Ittihad, it is a chance to salvage pride in a season that has drifted away from expectations. But hovering above everything is a single unresolved storyline — one that has quietly become the most talked-about issue in Saudi soccer.

On paper, the knight of Najd arrives as the form side. After 19 league matches, the club sits third in the table with 46 points, four points behind leader Al-Hilal. A difficult start to the year has given way to renewed confidence, with five consecutive league wins pushing Al-Nassr firmly back into contention. The attack has been ruthless, producing 49 goals, the best tally in the division.

Al-Ittihad’s campaign has followed a very different arc. The reigning champion sits sixth with 34 points, already 10 points off the top three. Consistency has been elusive, even though recent results show signs of recovery. A narrow win over Al-Najma kept the club unbeaten in three matches, but the sense of instability remains, both on the pitch and behind the scenes.

The rivalry itself adds extra weight. Al-Ittihad eliminated Al-Nassr from the King’s Cup earlier in the season, a result that still lingers. Meanwhile, confirmed lineups point to strong selections on both sides. Jorge Jesus will lean on Bento in goal, with a back line built around experience and physicality, while Joao Felix and Sadio Mane carry the creative burden in attack.

Sergio Conceicao, on the other hand, counters with Predrag Rajkovic, a robust midfield led by Fabinho, and pace on the wings through Moussa Diaby. Yet despite the tactical previews and statistical breakdowns, everything circles back to a single uncertainty.

Will Ronaldo play?

Midway through preparations, clarity finally emerged. Cristiano Ronaldo will not play. Multiple reports have confirmed that the Portuguese forward will miss a second consecutive league match, despite not being injured. According to Fabrizio Romano, Ronaldo’s absence is a deliberate protest aimed at the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), which oversees several top clubs in the league.

“Ronaldo is unhappy with the lack of investment in Al-Nassr, especially when compared to rivals,” Romano reported, noting that the forward was particularly frustrated by Al-Hilal’s winter signings, including the high-profile arrival of Karim Benzema.

ESPN echoed those claims, stating that Ronaldo even attempted to block Benzema’s move, viewing it as a distortion of competitive balance. Meanwhile, A Bola added that internal changes at Al-Nassr, including the reduced influence of executives close to Ronaldo, have intensified the standoff. Despite turning 41 years old, the Portuguese continues to train normally. Thus, his absence is symbolic rather than physical.

Al-Nassr vs. Al-Ittihad: Confirmed lineups

Al-Nassr confirmed XI (4-4-3): Bento; Sultan, Martinez, Simakan, Amri; Angelo, Khaibari, Brozovic; Mane, Coman, Felix.

Al-Ittihad confirmed XI (4-3-3): Rajkovic; Shanqeeti, Pereira, Kadesh, Mitaj; Al-Julaydan, Fabinho, Doumbia; Diaby, Aouar, En-Nesyri.

Christian Pulisic did not step onto the pitch on Tuesday night against Bologna, yet his name still found its way into a chapter of Milan’s modern history.

Christian Pulisic did not step onto the pitch on Tuesday night against Bologna, yet his name still found its way into a chapter of Milan’s modern history. As the American continues to battle physical setbacks, the club pressed forward regardless, delivering another authoritative performance that quietly pushed them into rare European territory. What unfolded at the Dall’Ara was not just another away win or another clean sheet, but a night that subtly reshaped the narrative of Milan’s 2025-26 campaign.

The absence of Pulisic, dealing with bursitis near his hip, forced Massimiliano Allegri to improvise once more. And yet, even without one of their most decisive players, Milan moved with the confidence of a side that knows exactly where it is headed.

Milan’s 3-0 victory away at Bologna felt clinical, composed, and deeply symbolic. Ruben Loftus-Cheek opened the scoring in the 20th minute after intelligent work from Adrien Rabiot, setting the tone early. Christopher Nkunku doubled the advantage from the penalty spot, before Rabiot himself sealed the win shortly after the break with a left-footed finish that underlined his growing influence.

Few moments capture the transformation of the Rossoneri this season better than the arrival of Adrien Rabiot. Signed permanently this summer, the French midfielder has become the heartbeat of the team. Since his arrival, Milan has not lost a single league match, a fact that now feels impossible to separate from his presence.

His contribution against the Rossoblu—one assist and one goal—only told part of the story. The real statement came moments after Loftus-Cheek scored, when the Frenchman immediately embraced Nkunku, who had earlier missed a clear chance. It was leadership in its purest form, the kind that rarely shows up on stat sheets.

The record finally revealed

Only in the middle of this journey does the scale of Milan’s achievement fully reveal itself. With the win in Bologna, Milan extended its unbeaten run to 22 consecutive matches, a sequence unmatched anywhere else in Europe’s top leagues during the 2025-26 season.

Massimiliano Allegri’s players now boast the longest active unbeaten streak in Europe, standing alone above sides such as Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund. It is the club’s longest single-season unbeaten run since the legendary 1992-93 campaign under Fabio Capello, when the Rossoneri reached 23 matches without defeat. The comparison is unavoidable, but Allegri’s Milan remains a different beast. This is not yet a finished superpower, but rather a team growing into one.

How Pulisic contributed to the record

The broader picture is just as striking. Milan has reached 50 points by matchday 23, something achieved only twice before in the three-points-for-a-win era. The Red and Blacks are already 15 points better off than last season, sitting comfortably clear of fifth place and steadily tightening their grip on a Champions League return.

Away from home, the record is even more impressive. The club remains unbeaten in its first 12 away league matches, a feat not seen since Serie A returned to a 20-team format in 2004-05. Only Bayern Munich can match that consistency across Europe’s major leagues.

Even while sidelined, Christian Pulisic remains central to the story. Milan’s top scorer with 10 goals in all competitions, the American has battled hamstring problems and now bursitis, limiting him to just three starts in the last six league games.

With Fabio Capello already weighing in, another Milan legend has now stepped forward, adding to the scrutiny surrounding the American’s difficult start to 2026.

Christian Pulisic is once again at the center of Italian soccer’s most unforgiving conversation. With Fabio Capello already weighing in, another Milan legend has now stepped forward, adding to the scrutiny surrounding the American’s difficult start to 2026. As Milan navigates a decisive phase of the season, pressure is mounting, not just on the team but on the individual expected to carry it. And when voices like Capello and Alessandro Costacurta speak, the message tends to echo far beyond a single weekend.

This is not unfamiliar territory for Pulisic. From Dortmund to Chelsea and now Milan, expectation has followed him relentlessly. What has changed is the tone. What was once admiration is now conditional, and patience is thinning as the club’s title ambitions face subtle but real threats.

Every January seems to reopen the same chapter. Christian Pulisic hits a stretch where the conversation shifts—from how good he can be to why he isn’t showing it. The Rossoneri, meanwhile, have drifted into a pattern that rarely wins championships: too many draws, not enough decisive moments, and missed opportunities against teams they should be beating.

The numbers tell the story. Pulisic has not scored since December 28 and has not registered an assist since November 23. Milan has lost just once all season, yet eight draws have eroded its margin, leaving it five points behind Inter with 16 matches to play. In a title race that tight, stars must tip games. That burden falls squarely on Pulisic, and that is where the debate intensifies.

What did Costacurta say?

Only midway through the discussion does the latest criticism emerge, and it comes from a figure whose words carry historical weight. Speaking live on Sky Italia’s Calciomercato L’Originale, Alessandro Costacurta turned his attention to Milan’s attacking unit of Pulisic, Rafael Leao, and Christopher Nkunku after a quiet winter transfer and a depleted squad.

“Milan must wait for those three or four players to improve their performance, especially in attack,” Costacurta said. “I’m talking about Rafa Leao, but also Christian Pulisic, who started well but is not feeling well now.”

The verdict was blunt but calculated. The five-time Champions League winner did not question Pulisic’s talent. Instead, he placed responsibility squarely on the player to raise his level, particularly in moments when the team needs individual quality to break deadlocks. “Nkunku also needs to give a little more,” he added. “I think Milan are hoping the players up front improve their individual performances.” This was not outrage, but expectation.

Capello set the tone earlier

Costacurta’s comments did not arrive in a vacuum. Days earlier, Fabio Capello had already opened the door to criticism following Milan’s frustrating draw against Fiorentina. Writing for La Gazzetta dello Sport, Capello focused on missed chances and a lack of ruthlessness—particularly from the American star. “Pulisic did everything thanks to Füllkrug,” Capello wrote. “The attacking duo created two or three chances out of nothing, but the American uncharacteristically missed them all.”

Then came the line that defined the discussion: “Mistakes uncharacteristic of him, like when he tried to beat De Gea instead of shooting… in that space, only Ronaldo Nazário could have beaten the goalkeeper and scored.” It was not mockery. It was a reminder of limits, and of how thin the margin is between brilliance and waste at the highest level.

Amid speculation, tension, and a title race balanced on a knife-edge, Al-Nassr has quietly completed a move that could reshape the short-term picture, and possibly the long-term one too.

For the first time in days, Cristiano Ronaldo has reason to look ahead rather than sideways. Amid speculation, tension, and a title race balanced on a knife-edge, Al-Nassr has quietly completed a move that could reshape the short-term picture, and possibly the long-term one too. Official approval has arrived, paperwork has cleared, and a new Saudi international has walked through the doors. What remains unanswered is the one question everyone is asking ahead of one of the season’s biggest fixtures.

The timing is no coincidence. With a Clasico looming and pressure mounting both on and off the pitch, Al-Nassr’s latest development lands at a moment when margins matter, and depth could decide everything.

On Tuesday, Al-Nassr officially unveiled Abdullah Al-Hamdan as a new player, completing his signing on a free transfer following the early termination of his contract with rival Al-Hilal. The 26-year-old Saudi striker finalized his deal on Monday evening before undergoing a medical examination and joining group training.

The club wasted no time in celebrating the arrival. Through its official platforms, the Knight of Najd welcomed the striker and wished him “brilliance and success” in the yellow jersey, a message that quickly resonated with supporters. His unveiling images reportedly drew nearly 1.5 million views in under two hours, underlining the excitement surrounding the move.

Al-Hamdan brings a pedigree with him. A Saudi Arabia international with over 40 caps and 10 goals, he has long been considered one of the country’s most reliable domestic forwards, a profile Al-Nassr has been keen to reinforce as it pushes on multiple fronts.

Why Al-Hamdan matters now amid Ronaldo’s saga

This is not a signing for optics alone. Al-Nassr reportedly views Al-Hamdan as a key addition to the attacking line, offering local depth, tactical flexibility, and experience in high-pressure matches. With domestic and continental ambitions still alive, the club has prioritized balance rather than marquee headlines.

There is also an unspoken subtext. With ongoing uncertainty surrounding Ronaldo’s future beyond the 2026 World Cup, some reports have framed Al-Hamdan as a rotation option, or even a long-term contingency. According to ESPN Brazil and Portuguese outlets, Ronaldo has been frustrated by unmet conditions tied to league and PIF management, with speculation suggesting a possible summer exit tied to a reported $59 million release clause.

For now, the Portuguese remains present in training, and some sources have dismissed the noise as exaggerated—still, Al-Nassr’s recruitment hints at a club planning ahead rather than reacting late.

Will Al-Hamdan be able to feature against Al-Ittihad?

Speculation intensified when Al-Hamdan was spotted fully participating in group training after completing all contractual and financial formalities. His sharp involvement only fueled anticipation ahead of Al-Nassr vs. Al-Ittihad, one of the most high-profile fixtures in Saudi soccer.

According to Al-Riyadiyah, Al-Nassr has received official approval from the Saudi Football Federation’s Professionalism Committee to register Abdullah Al-Hamdan until 2030. All administrative procedures have been completed, making the striker legally and technically eligible for the upcoming clash.

This means Al-Hamdan is available for selection against Al-Ittihad, scheduled for Friday at Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh. Whether he starts or appears from the bench will be Jorge Jesus’ call, but the option now exists, and that alone changes the dynamic.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s season in Saudi Arabia was supposed to be defined by records, goals, and silverware. Instead, as the Saudi Pro League reaches a critical phase, frustration has begun to overshadow brilliance.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s season in Saudi Arabia was supposed to be defined by records, goals, and silverware. Instead, as the Saudi Pro League reaches a critical phase, frustration has begun to overshadow brilliance. The Portuguese icon, still central to Al-Nassr’s identity and ambitions, finds himself watching from the sidelines once again. However, with every missed match, the chase for individual glory grows more complicated.

For a player who measures time in goals and milestones, absence carries consequences. While the Portuguese superstar remains one of the league’s most feared finishers, recent events have shifted the narrative away from dominance and toward tension, protest, and uncertainty.

Ronaldo is set to boycott a second successive Saudi Pro League match, a decision that sources say stems from growing dissatisfaction with the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF) and its handling of Al-Nassr. According to ESPN, the forward deliberately sat out the club’s 1-0 victory over Al-Riyadh, despite being fit and available. “Cristiano Ronaldo is set to boycott his second-straight Saudi Pro League match amid frustrations with the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund,” both ESPN and Fabrizio Romano confirmed.

The boycott is not due to injury or fitness concerns. Instead, it reflects the 41-year-old’s belief that Al-Nassr has been weakened by internal interference, particularly during the most recent transfer window. His frustration intensified after senior figures within the club, sporting director Simao Coutinho and CEO Jose Semedo, were suspended by PIF, a move that coincided with reduced spending and stalled recruitment.

Stark contrast with a title rival

While Al-Nassr struggled to reinforce, the situation elsewhere painted a very different picture. ESPN adds that Al-Hilal received a major financial injection from Saudi businessman Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, allowing the club to significantly strengthen its squad. “All of Al-Hilal’s signings in this window were funded by Prince Alwaleed,” ESPN‘s sources revealed, noting that the prince controls 25% ownership, with the remaining stake held by PIF.

The failed attempt to redirect Karim Benzema away from a rival, a move Ronaldo reportedly tried to block, became a breaking point. Ronaldo allegedly viewed the transfer outcome as deliberately tilting the title race, deepening his sense of injustice.

Another absence takes its toll

Despite the standoff, Ronaldo has continued to train normally and even posted images of himself in Al-Nassr colors. However, internally, he has communicated clear conditions for his return. As reported, “his comeback depends on the quick reactivation of the club’s management powers and an end to external interference in transfer decisions.”

While politics and protest dominate headlines, the sporting consequences are already visible. Cristiano Ronaldo last scored on January 30, opening the scoring in a 3-0 win over Al-Kholood. Since then, his absence has stalled his momentum and allowed another striker to quietly move ahead. That striker is Ivan Toney.

The English forward struck again on Thursday as Al-Ahli defeated Al-Hazem 2-0, scoring his 19th league goal and pushing his club into second place, leapfrogging Al-Nassr. According to official data, Toney has now edged ahead in the Golden Boot race, capitalizing on Ronaldo’s absence at a decisive moment.

The 29-year-old now leads the scoring charts with 19 goals, while Ronaldo follows closely with 17 goals from 18 matches. The gap remains narrow, but time and minutes are becoming precious.

What initially looked like momentum has gradually turned into uncertainty, and what felt like a dream pre-World Cup season now carries unanswered questions — questions that neither club nor nation can afford to ignore.

For much of the past year, Christian Pulisic moved in only one direction. His performances reached a new level, his influence grew undeniable, and the timing felt perfect. As the countdown toward the 2026 World Cup quietly began, everything seemed aligned for a season that could define both a career and a national moment.

But soccer has a way of reshaping even the most carefully built narratives. What initially looked like momentum has gradually turned into uncertainty, and what felt like a dream pre-World Cup season now carries unanswered questions — questions that neither club nor nation can afford to ignore. At the start of the campaign, Pulisic was among the most productive players in Europe, delivering goals, consistency, and leadership for Milan. His form was not only impressive statistically but symbolic — a player entering his prime at exactly the right moment.

By early autumn, he had established himself as one of Serie A’s most decisive attackers, leading the league in goals plus assists per 90 minutes and trailing only Harry Kane across Europe’s top five leagues. His performances helped push Milan into the title race, while also reinforcing his status as the central figure for the United States men’s national team ahead of a home World Cup. It was, by all appearances, the perfect buildup.

The shift came quietly. A knock here, a precaution there. Then came absences that were no longer tactical. Milan head coach Massimiliano Allegri confirmed ahead of the crucial league match against Bologna that the American would not travel with the squad. The reason soon followed. “Pulisic has bursitis that’s bothering him,” Allegri said, adding that the club hoped to get him “back on track in the coming days.”

Bursitis — an inflammation of fluid-filled sacs near joints — was reported to be near the hip, according to The Athletic. In isolation, it was not considered serious. In context, it became another chapter in a familiar pattern.

Career shaped by stops and starts

Injuries have never been a footnote in Pulisic’s career. They have been a defining theme. During his time at Chelsea, recurring hamstring, muscle, ankle, and knee issues repeatedly disrupted rhythm and momentum. In his final two seasons alone, he suffered five separate injuries, missing months of action at critical moments.

His move to Milan initially suggested a turning point. Across his first two seasons, he contributed 52 goal involvements, played consistently, and appeared to have found balance. That illusion began to crack during the current campaign. A hamstring tear suffered on international duty in October sidelined him for nearly a month. Since then, his availability has fluctuated, his minutes have been managed, and his role has occasionally shifted to the bench. The latest bursitis issue marks his third injury of the 2025-26 season.

The impact has been visible. Since returning from the October setback, Pulisic has scored just four goals, all of them before the calendar turned to 2026. In the new year, he has failed to register a single goal contribution in five appearances, a sharp contrast to his explosive start.

Allegri acknowledged the challenge earlier this winter. “Several players not at peak condition,” he admitted in January. “Pulisic has a hamstring problem that is still bothering him from time to time.” Despite careful management, Milan remains heavily dependent on him. He is still the club’s leading scorer, and with a title race tightening, the margin for caution continues to shrink.

What it means for Milan and the USMNT

For Milan, the equation is simple: it is a better team with Pulisic, even when he is not fully fit. However, for the national team, the stakes are even higher. Head coach Mauricio Pochettino has consistently emphasized the importance of protecting his most influential player. “He’s a fantastic player,” Pochettino said last autumn. “Sometimes we need to protect [players]… when we really need him, he needs to be in form, happy, strong.”

The 2026 World Cup will not allow for gradual recovery or imperfect preparation. It will demand sharpness, rhythm, and physical certainty. Moreover, there is still time. Pulisic could recover fully, rediscover his early-season form, and arrive at the World Cup as the player he appeared to be becoming just months ago. That outcome remains possible. But the trajectory is no longer straightforward. Injuries have once again interrupted momentum, turning clarity into doubt.

As Milan navigates a delicate phase of the season and the 2026 World Cup looms ever closer, the American’s form, fitness, and rhythm have become inseparable topics.

The calendar is beginning to matter more than ever for Christian Pulisic. As Milan navigates a delicate phase of the season and the 2026 World Cup looms ever closer, the American’s form, fitness, and rhythm have become inseparable topics. What should have been a defining winter stretch has instead turned into a period of frustration — not just for the player, but for a club whose title ambitions depend heavily on him.

A carefully planned recovery window, a rare pause in the schedule, and long-term considerations have all converged at once — and Milan is betting that patience now will pay dividends later. January has been unforgiving, as Pulisic has not scored since December 28 and has not registered an assist since November 23. During that same stretch, the Rossoneri’s title charge has lost momentum. With 16 league matches remaining, the club sits five points behind Inter, victims not of defeats but of damaging draws.

Milan has lost just once all season, yet eight draws have quietly drained their advantage. These are the moments when stars are expected to tilt matches, and when Pulisic is at his best, he does exactly that. Games against Genoa and Fiorentina slipped by without his influence, and while a 1-1 draw with Roma was respectable, it did little to change the trajectory. The concern is not just form — it is timing. In a title race, slumps are magnified.

To add to the wound, Pulisic was left out of the squad for the trip to Bologna, and Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri soon confirmed the reason. “Pulisic has bursitis that’s bothering him,” Allegri said, adding that the club hoped the winger would be “back on track in the coming days.”

According to The Athletic, the issue is bursitis near the hip, an inflammation of fluid-filled sacs around the joint. Importantly, it is not considered a serious injury, but it was enough to keep the club from risking him in a crucial fixture. The absence forced Milan to proceed without its leading scorer in a must-win match, highlighting just how thin the margins have become.

Rare opportunity: 20 days to reset

Here is where the update takes a more positive turn. Due to a rescheduled fixture and Milan’s advancing calendar, Pulisic and Rafael Leao have been granted a 20-day window between the 1-1 draw against Roma and the next matchday against Pisa to recover fully. La Gazzetta dello Sport reported that “the injured players Saelemaekers, Pulisic, Leao and Gimenez will still report to Milanello, continuing treatment,” even as the rest of the squad were given days off.

In practical terms, this means 20 days of controlled rest, therapy, and load management, a luxury rarely afforded during the season. The next match arrives on February 13, allowing Milan to rebuild fitness without rushing decisions. This stretch is being treated less as downtime and more as a strategic reset.

The World Cup factor looms larger

Beyond Milan, the implications stretch further. The U.S. men’s national team cannot afford a compromised Pulisic heading into a home World Cup. Anything short of peak condition threatens preparation, rhythm, and confidence.

Since returning from the October hamstring injury, the 27-year-old has scored just four times, all before 2026 began. In the new year, he has gone five appearances without a goal contribution. Another interruption, even a minor one, risks extending that dip. The 20-day rest period is therefore not just about Milan’s title chase; it is about ensuring that Pulisic reaches the World Cup cycle with stability, not survival mode.