Pulisic can inspire next U.S. wave – McConaughey

5:21 AM ET

Oscar-winning film star and Austin FC co-owner Matthew McConaughey hopes to see the next generation of U.S. soccer talent follow Christian Pulisic‘s lead and make an impact in the sport around the world.

Pulisic has made a major impact at Chelsea since joining in a €64 million transfer from Borussia Dortmund in the summer, scoring six goals including a hat trick against Burnley.

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McConaughey was at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday as Pulisic helped Chelsea reach the knockout stages of the Champions League with a 2-1 win against Lille.

“As far as Americans go in European leagues [Pulisic] would be top of the American’s game,” McConaughey said. “Hopefully we can see more of that. Youth soccer in America is big, it is huge.

“There’s a real commitment there. My hope is that in eight to 10 years you’re going to see that generation actually having something to do with soccer around the world at a high level.

“We’ll see, I don’t think it’s ever going to take over American football or American basketball but it may take over hockey and baseball.

“So it’s good to see Pulisic out there and hopefully he keeps it up and hopefully more Americans can get up to his level.”

McConaughey joined Austin FC’s ownership group in August. Austin will join MLS as the league’s 27th franchise in 2021.