Ex-USMNT Star Stuart Holden Drops Bombshell: Is Christian Pulisic’s Talent Being Overlooked Just Because He’s American?

Christian Pulisic is in the form of his Milan career, yet the discussions around him continue to circle around an unexpected theme: recognition. Former USMNT midfielder Stuart Holden believes the issue goes beyond goals, assists, or Milan’s status in Serie A. His argument, framed around whether American talent is judged through a different lens, has reopened a debate that shadows Pulisic more persistently than most of his markers.

The answer Holden gives on whether Pulisic is undervalued because he is American appears simple, but what he actually says later in the conversation carries a sharper edge, one that transforms the question into something more mysterious.

The 27-year-old’s level is not up for debate. In his first nine matches of the season across Serie A and the cup, he has produced six goals and two assists, driving the Rossoneri’s attacking structure with both efficiency and flair. His impact has been immediate, decisive, and, crucially, consistent. According to Goal’s US arm, his start to the season puts him on pace for the most productive year of his European career.

And yet, despite the numbers, the performances, and the influence he has on the club’s attacking rhythm, Holden argues that the soccer world remains hesitant to place Pulisic in the tier he deserves. The question posed to him on The Rondo — a show produced by Goal USA — cut straight to the heart of it: Would Pulisic be viewed differently if he had chosen to represent Croatia, the homeland of his grandfather? Holden didn’t hesitate. But he didn’t fully reveal his strongest point — not yet.