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Jake Stokes

Thierry Henry surprised by Christian Pulisic transfer decision amid Man United winger mission

Thierry Henry is surprised that Christian Pulisic didn't force a move away from Chelsea this summer despite having been out of favour under Thomas Tuchel. The 23-year-old faced an increasingly uncertain future at Stamford Bridge amid concerns over game time under the former Blues boss.

The United States international, who sees his contract expire in 2024, featured 22 times in the Premier League last season, directly contributing towards eight goals. Pulisic played a bit-part role in Chelsea securing Champions League qualification amid steep competition for places in the first-team.

As a result, United emerged as a potential suitor as they looked to take advantage of the American's situation amid Erik ten Hag's search for a winger. But, despite bleak prospects, Pulisic ended up staying, leaving Henry confused.

READ MORE: Graham Potter told Chelsea dressing room is a 'mess' for Liverpool test after Thomas Tuchel exit

Speaking on CBS Sports, the former Arsenal forward said: "I think by now we would have known if he could play. He has been at Chelsea for a very long time.

"I thought Christian Pulisic was going to leave," Henry added. "I think it was time for him to leave. But he didn’t. It’s over. That’s going to be the case up until the World Cup.

"He has to find a way to play. Raheem Sterling is in front of him. They also have Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. But I thought [Pulisic] was going to leave."

However, with Graham Potter replacing Tuchel at the helm, Pulisic has been granted a new-found opportunity to prove himself again at Chelsea. While the winger does face competition from the likes of Sterling, Aubameyang, Hakim Ziyech and Mason Mount, he's starting from a clean slate.

It also must be said that following the postponement of the Blues' clash with Liverpool on Sunday, Pulisic has more time on the training pitch at Cobham to prove his worth. However, it could be a race against time with the international break and Qatar World Cup just a few months away.

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