USMNT star Christian Pulisic found it hard to keep a straight face when his Copa America photoshoot was hilariously interrupted by his teammate Weston McKennie, reported by GOAL. The light-hearted moment highlights the close bond between these two talented players as they gear up for a major tournament on home soil.

With the United States set to host the Copa America, the mood in the camp is a mix of serious preparation and playful camaraderie. Pulisic, who has just wrapped up his most productive season with AC Milan, was in the middle of a photoshoot when McKennie decided to step in and add some humor.

The two have a long history together, having grown up both personally and professionally in parallel paths. They both left the United States at a young age to pursue their careers in Germany and are now key players for top teams in Serie A. Weston McKennie, after an unexpected second chance at Juventus, joins Christian Pulisic in representing the USMNT in this prestigious tournament.

Ready for Copa America

Gregg Berhalter, the USMNT head coach, is preparing his squad for a challenging Copa America, which kicks off on June 20. Pulisic and McKennie are expected to be pivotal figures for the team. However, their playful antics show that they are not just focused on the game but also on maintaining a positive and relaxed atmosphere within the squad.

After the prank, a laughing Pulisic exclaimed, “This is ridiculous! Weston, we are trying to get out of here.” The moment captured the spirit of the team, showing their unity and the strong relationships built over years of playing together.

Pulisic and McKennie’s journey from the youth academies in Germany to the senior squads of AC Milan and Juventus respectively, underscores their remarkable development as players. Their shared experiences have forged a strong friendship, which is evident in their interactions both on and off the pitch.

Pulisic has been a revelation for AC Milan, scoring vital goals and becoming an integral part of their attacking lineup. McKennie, after overcoming various challenges, has proven his worth at Juventus, showcasing his versatility and determination. Together, they bring a wealth of experience and talent to the USMNT.

What’s next for the USMNT

As the USMNT prepares for Copa America, the team’s dynamic is a blend of youthful exuberance and seasoned professionalism. Berhalter’s squad includes a mix of experienced players like Pulisic and McKennie and emerging talents ready to make their mark on the international stage. The tournament presents a crucial opportunity for the team to prove their mettle on home soil.

The opening match against Bolivia on June 23 will set the tone for the tournament. The USMNT will also face Panama and Uruguay in Group C, with high hopes of progressing deep into the competition. The ultimate goal is to build momentum heading into the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, where the team aims for a gold medal.

The prank by McKennie is a reminder that while the players are focused on their professional goals, maintaining a relaxed and friendly environment is equally important. This balance of seriousness and humor is what makes the team resilient and adaptable under pressure.

As the USMNT embarks on their Copa America campaign, the bond between Pulisic and McKennie will be crucial. Their on-field chemistry and off-field friendship are assets that can inspire the entire squad. With a challenging group ahead, the team’s unity and determination will be tested, but with leaders like Pulisic and McKennie, the USMNT is well-prepared to tackle the challenges head-on.

In conclusion, as the USMNT gears up for Copa America, moments of camaraderie like the one between Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie are invaluable. They reflect the team’s spirit and readiness to compete at the highest level. The pranks and laughter are not just distractions but are essential in building a strong, cohesive unit ready to take on the best teams in the world.