The U.S. men's national team enters the CONCACAF Gold Cup coming off a four-game losing streak under new head coach Mauricio Pochettino. And if the USMNT is going to right the ship this tournament, it's going to do so without its best players.

Looking ahead, the AC Milan star assured fans that he’s preparing for a strong return. “I’ll be in good shape once this next season starts,” he said. “I’m hungrier than ever. Big things are coming.” AC Milan forward Christian Pulisic has spoken out in response to the criticism he received for opting out of the upcoming CONCACAF Gold Cup.

Christian Pulisic has been backed by former teammate Olivier Giroud as the ruckus over the U.S. men’s national team star’s summer absence continues to rumble on.