How does Alan Pulido fit into Sporting KC’s rebuild?

A rebuild is on the horizon for Sporting KC and the most expensive player on the roster, Alan Pulido, is failing to make an impact. Should SKC consider biting the bullet to buyout the striker’s contract?

In last Tuesday’s US Open Cup Semifinal, Pulido missed his third PK in a row dating back to last year. It was at the end of the match, the game in hand, and against a lower league opponent. If there was ever a chance to get back your confidence… that was it.

The 33-year-old has scored just four goals since signing his new contract one year ago. He does have seven assists since then, including three massive assists in the two-match playoff win over St. Louis City. But Pulido hasn’t scored an MLS goal since April and his last assist was back in May. William Agada, his counterpart, has taken over the position for a fraction of the cost. The fans can see it. His opponents can see it. Pulido is leaking confidence.

At what point does Sporting KC need to consider the option of buying out his massive contract? Is that even feasible?

The Mexican international has a salary of $3.6 million in this first year of a three-year contract. Alan will be 35 when it ends in 2026. Beyond that, the rest of the details have not been made public. It’s unknown how much Sporting KC are due to pay him over the next two years.

The Shades of Blue crew discusses Alan Pulido’s struggles and what to do with his contract on the latest episode. The show also covers Sporting KC falling upwards into the CONCACAF Champion’s Cup.

They also discuss the USMNT roster for the upcoming friendly against Canada at Children’s Mercy Park. Stephen Afrifa, called up to Canada, has a chance to keep an insane stat alive for SKC should he make an appearance.

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