‘He’s not that guy’: Thierry Henry sends a clear reality-check message to USMNT fans after CONCACAF Nations League struggles
Christian Pulisic’s captaincy of the USMNT has come under fire following a disappointing CONCACAF Nations League campaign. The Milan star, often viewed as the face of American soccer, has faced criticism for his leadership style after the team suffered consecutive defeats against Panama and Canada, finishing fourth in the tournament.
As fans and pundits search for a commanding figure to rally the squad, questions have been raised about whether Pulisic is truly the leader the team needs. While he remains the nation’s most technically gifted player, some believe he lacks the vocal presence and authoritative demeanor associated with legendary captains of the past.
However, Thierry Henry has now come to Pulisic’s defense, calling for a reassessment of expectations placed on the 26-year-old. The French icon argues that forcing the American winger into a leadership role that does not suit his personality is unfair and counterproductive.
What did Thierry Henry say?
The former MLS striker addressed the criticism surrounding Pulisic’s leadership while speaking on CBS Sports. Henry made it clear that while Pulisic is a “very good player,” he is not the type of leader some Stars and Stripes’ supporters seem to expect.
“I do think that Christian Pulisic is a good player. Very good player. For the first time, he’s playing week in, week out in a team and delivering in a good team in Europe,” Henry stated. “But you also have to stop that narrative that maybe he’s not that type of leader. Stop that. Don’t force him to be that. He’s a technical leader.”
The 47-year-old then used an interesting comparison to illustrate his point, drawing from his experiences playing alongside some of soccer’s most iconic leaders. “Gattuso wasn’t Pirlo. Pirlo wasn’t Gattuso. If you know what I mean,” Henry explained. “That doesn’t mean he’s not the best in this team as a player. But is he that type of leader? Is he the guy that, when things are not working for him, is going to be vocal on the field, make that tackle to get the crowd going? He’s not that type of guy.”
The Frenchman emphasized that rather than criticizing Pulisic for not being a vocal or aggressive leader, the focus should be on maximizing his strengths. “He’s a very good player. Play him in the best position that he can play, where he can be effective,” the Frenchman continued. “But we have to stop the narrative that he will be a Clint Dempsey. He’s not. He’s not going to be that guy. He even said it himself. He struggles to do it. Is he going to maybe be better? We will see. But right now, stop looking for something that is not yet.”
“Stop making him something that he’s not.”
— Golazo America (@GolazoAmerica) March 23, 2025
Thierry Henry calls for a reality check on the expectations placed on Christian Pulisic's style of leadership ????️ pic.twitter.com/DqN5H2iLyR
Who else could step up?
If Pulisic isn’t the outspoken leader fans are hoping for, then who is? There are a few potential candidates within the current USMNT squad who could take on a more vocal leadership role.
Tyler Adams could perhaps be the most obvious choice. The Bournemouth midfielder has previously worn the armband and possesses a more traditional leadership style. However, injury struggles have made him an unreliable presence on the team.
Another option could be Antonee Robinson, who has established himself as one of the team’s most consistent performers. The Fulham defender was absent from the Nations League due to injury, but his presence could have made a difference.