As the U.S. Men's National Team gears up for this summer's FIFA World Cup, all eyes are on Christian Pulisic—the man they call "Captain America." But with 2026 already underway and a nagging goal drought hanging over his head, USMNT legend Kasey Keller is calling for the AC Milan star to rise to the occasion.

Pulisic hasn't scored for his country since November 2024, and his controversial decision to skip the 2025 Gold Cup has limited his international minutes. While his club form with AC Milan started the 2025-26 season on a high note, it's fizzled in recent months—he hasn't found the back of the net since last December. Milan head coach Massimiliano Allegri has publicly backed Pulisic through the slump, but Keller believes the pressure is mounting as the World Cup approaches.

"He's obviously a very good player," Keller said in an exclusive interview. "We have a squad of good players. We have very few very good players, and we really don't have that world superstar. Someone like Christian is crucial. Him having a good World Cup is going to be crucial for the success. Maybe not getting out of the group success, but if we want to do something that everyone goes, 'Wow, I didn't expect that from the U.S. in this World Cup'—a very good turn up from Christian Pulisic is going to be necessary."

Keller's words carry weight. As a USMNT icon and former goalkeeper, he knows what it takes to perform on the biggest stage. He acknowledges the frustration fans feel, especially after Pulisic's electric first half of the season at Milan. But with just four games left in the club campaign, the 27-year-old attacker has time to rediscover his scoring touch and build momentum.

Pulisic has now matched the longest goalless stretch of his professional career, making every match count as he looks to shake off the rust. For a player who has worn the armband and shouldered the hopes of a nation, the message is clear: step up or risk watching the World Cup pass by. As the summer heats up, so does the spotlight on "Captain America."