How Christian Pulisic is emerging as one of AC Milan’s key players

GettyImages-2248113233.jpg-1024x576 How Christian Pulisic is emerging as one of AC Milan’s key players
WIDE-BANNER-SIGN-UP-BONUS-PLAYRESPONSIBLY-1024x192 How Christian Pulisic is emerging as one of AC Milan’s key players

At 27, U.S. national team stalwart and AC Milan standout Christian Pulisic is entering the peak of his career.

The American forward has been central to the Rossoneri’s resurgence under Maximiliano Allegri, and as the Supercoppa Italiana approaches, he’ll be eager to score the decisive goals that could secure a second consecutive title for Milan.

Pulisic flourishing at Milan

Last year, Milan triumphed over arch-rivals Inter in the Supercoppa final, with Pulisic scoring a crucial 80th-minute equalizer after the team had fallen 2-0 behind, setting the stage for Tammy Abraham’s stoppage-time winner.

That goal is emblematic of Pulisic’s impact—a player who never quite reached his potential at Chelsea but has since transformed himself into a key figure for Milan.

It’s rare for American players to succeed consistently at the highest level in Europe, making Pulisic’s rise all the more impressive. He has leveraged his Chelsea experience to fuel his development into one of Milan’s most important stars.

Stellar 2025/26 form

Despite missing five Serie A games this season due to a thigh injury and playing some matches below full fitness, Pulisic has scored seven goals in 10 league appearances—just one behind Serie A’s top scorer, Lautaro Martinez, who has played five more games—and added two assists.

One standout moment came against Inter, where Pulisic scored the only goal of the match, setting the tone for Milan’s eventual victory, aided by heroics from goalkeeper Mike Maignan.

When compared to his previous seasons at San Siro, his current form is exceptional. In 2024/25, he scored 11 goals and recorded nine assists in 34 league games; in 2023/24, he notched 12 goals and eight assists in 36 matches. If he maintains this scoring rate, he could surpass those totals this season, with additional contributions coming in domestic and European cup competitions.

A talismanic presence

Pulisic’s influence extends beyond goals and assists. Quiet and unassuming off the pitch, he lets his performances speak for him. This season, more than ever, he has become a talismanic figure for Milan.

His tactical intelligence allows him to adapt seamlessly to Allegri’s varied formations, whether it’s a 4-5-1, 4-3-3, 4-4-2, 3-5-1-1, or even a 3-3-1-3. Pulisic remains a constant presence, contributing both as a wide runner and as a second striker behind Christopher Nkunku.

Whether threading balls to Nkunku or Rafa Leão, his spatial awareness and timing have been crucial to Milan’s attacking play. His partnership with the veteran Luka Modrić has also been a highlight, with the Croatian providing a creative hub that allows Pulisic to thrive.

Milan moving forward

Earlier this season, Pulisic spoke to Italian media about Milan’s progress:

“We are getting more solid as a unit, we’re playing well with five at the back, and things are going well. We have a great team. The important thing now is to be consistent, take it one game at a time, and have a great season.”

While the Supercoppa Italiana would be a prestigious addition to Milan’s cabinet—especially with another victory over Inter—the ultimate goal remains Serie A glory. Inter have won seven titles this millennium, equaling 19 each with Milan. Becoming the first to reach 20 titles is a major motivating factor.

If Pulisic stays fit and continues his current form, he could lead Milan to the title, cementing his legacy among the club’s great forwards. In a World Cup year—and with the tournament being played on his home continent—winning Serie A could make 2025/26 a truly iconic season for the American star.

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