Christian Pulisic Provides Pre-Season Fitness Update After Charlotte FC Defeat

Chelsea and USMNT star Christian Pulisic has provided a fitness update after the Blues’ pre-season clash against Charlotte FC.

The 23-year-old netted in the first-half, running onto a Michy Batshuayi deflected shot to chip past the goalkeeper.

However, his effort was not enough to see his side win the match, with Daniel Rios bagging a penalty in the last minute of the tie after Trevoh Chalobah was penalised for handling the ball.

The match ended in a shoot-out, with Conor Gallagher missing his spot kick as Chelsea fell to defeat on their second match of the pre-season tour.

Christian Pulisic celebrating against Charlotte FC. (Chelsea FC)

The USMNT forward took time after the match to sign autographs for all those waiting, doing a lap of the stadium in his home country before heading back into the dressing room.

He admitted that he was impressed with the performance from the MLS side, who reduced Chelsea’s chances throughout the match as the Blues fell to an eventual defeat on penalties.

"I think we're still starting up our season, it's our second game together. We're still working on some things. I thought we had some good moments. They really surprised us. Penalties, anything can happen,” he said.

The American will be hoping for some improved game time next season, having been frustrated on the bench for much of the last campaign under Thomas Tuchel.

Pulisic is working hard during the Blues’ pre-season tour to be in the best physical shape ahead of the new season, with the 2022 World Cup coming up at the end of the year.

Speaking to Chelsea’s official website, Pulisic provided a fitness update as his side head into their final match of the pre-season tour.

He said: "I'm feeling sharp but I still have more levels to go to. I'm looking forward to continuing to grind and get better."

Chelsea's Christian Pulisic during the UEFA Champions League round of sixteen first leg match at Stamford Bridge, London

The 23-year-old then continued to reveal that he is excited to face London rivals Arsenal in the final match before returning to England.

"It's going to be a good test, someone we will face this year,” he continued.

“We are looking forward to the challenge. The last game in the States should be a good one."

 The Florida Cup final takes place on Sunday morning (UK), with Chelsea fans able to view it for free on the 5th Stand app, or on the Chelsea website.

The Blues will then return to London and prepare to face Udinese for the final match of pre-season.