Pulisic SNUB! USA Power Rankings SHOCK Fans - What Will Happen Next?!

Christian Pulisic, a name synonymous with U.S. Men's National Team soccer, is notably absent from Alexi Lalas' latest power rankings. This isn’t a slight on Pulisic’s talent, mind you, but rather a reflection of his current injury situation. After a promising start to the season with AC Milan, the USMNT star has been sidelined, preventing him from consistently seeing the pitch – a crucial factor in Lalas' evaluation.

Pulisic SNUB! USA Power Rankings SHOCK Fans - What...

Lalas, never one to mince words, made it clear on his "Alexi Lalas' State of the Union" show that consistent playing time is paramount for earning a spot in his top five. "If you're hurt, it doesn't mean you're not a great player," Lalas explained, "It doesn't mean you possibly couldn't be at the top of my power rankings, but you got to be playing and doing well." It's a meritocratic approach, and one that, while perhaps frustrating for Pulisic fans, is undeniably fair.

So, who is making the cut right now? Brenden Aaronson, despite Leeds United's struggles in the Premier League, secures a spot. Lalas highlights Aaronson's consistency and recent improvements, noting, "I think he's just been consistent now for weeks and months... there's a lot of people whose heads he's turning." Aaronson's four goals and overall performance have seemingly solidified his case for a World Cup roster spot.

Then there's Tessmann, currently making waves in France with Lyon. Lalas acknowledges his impressive season, saying, "It's a wonderful moment right now playing consistently and being on the field when they are doing well." While Lalas isn't ready to guarantee him a World Cup spot just yet, he clearly recognizes the impact Tessmann is having. It's tough to ignore nearly 2,000 minutes of playtime across all competitions, especially for a young player trying to break into the national team picture.

Weston McKennie's resurgence with Juventus is another key factor shaping Lalas' rankings. With seven goals and four assists, McKennie’s versatility and midfield presence make him a near-lock for the World Cup squad. He's a player who seems to thrive on pressure, and that’s exactly what the USMNT needs heading into a major tournament.

What about Pulisic’s potential return to the rankings? Lalas remains optimistic. "Certainly the second half of his season right now has been anything but what the first half was. He's hurt. So who knows, he could come back with flying colors and do wonderful things. And because of who Christian Pulisic is, I think it's easy for him to skyrocket back into my power rankings." It’s a testament to Pulisic’s proven ability; he has that x-factor that can change a game in an instant. For now, though, it’s a waiting game. He’ll need to get healthy and find his form again, and then, I suspect, we'll see him climbing back up those rankings in no time.