As the USMNT will play Mexico in the 2025 Gold Cup final, one name is noticeably missing from the squad sheet: Christian Pulisic. Pulisic’s absence has fueled plenty of discussion online, especially given the rise of young stars like Diego Luna - who's wearing the number 10 in Pulisic's absence.

Christian Pulisic isn't with the U.S. after deciding to sit out of the Gold Cup following two grueling seasons in Europe with AC Milan. The 26-year-old attacker told CBS Sports that he offered to play the two friendlies versus Turkiye and Switzerland before the tournament started, but coach Mauricio Pochettino turned him down.

Mauricio Pochettino will face his toughest competitive task yet with the USMNT as they take on the defending Gold Cup champions, Mexico, in the 2025 Gold Cup Final. The USMNT will be without key players who will likely be a part of the final roster for the World Cup,