Christian Pulisic replacements if USMNT star can't play vs. Australia

Christian Pulisic remains questionable for Friday's USMNT World Cup match against Australia as a left‑calf injury lingers. He was on a modified training schedule this week, with a chance to start or come off the bench depending on his recovery. If he cannot play, Mauricio Pochettino will turn to alternatives to fill his creative role and goalscoring threat, which could influence the rest of the lineup. Possible replacements include Tim Weah, who could move to the left flank after primarily operating on the right, and Gio Reyna, whose recent form and performance against Paraguay raised expectations. Haji Wright has pushed for more opportunities, while Alejandro Zendejas has been cited by analysts as an offensive weapon off the bench. Coaches may also consider a different midfield setup to accommodate these changes. For The Win published this analysis, framing the replacements as tentative options until Pulisic's fitness is clarified. Friday's match marks another high-stakes stage in the World Cup qualifying calendar, with Pochettino balancing risk and depth ahead of upcoming fixtures.