The Flamengo midfielder's decision was motivated by criticism he receives in Chile, according to former striker Esteban Paredes, the country's all-time leading scorer. Paredes stated that Pulgar has a fragile mind and does not want to join the national team because he will be booed. Claudio Borghi, a former Chile national team coach, defended Pulgar's stance, saying the player should always be available, regardless of who the national team coach is. Meanwhile, Nicolás Córdova, the current national team coach, said Pulgar refused the call-up for personal reasons and will not judge why he is not in the team.