2 weeks ago
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This morning, Christian Pulisic has spoken about his time at AC Milan so far, and what the future can look like with Massimiliano Allegri.
When Pulisic first rocked up in Milano, there were doubts about what role he would play. After all, exciting winger Samuel Chukwueze also arrived in the same summer. Instead, the American established himself as one of the best attackers in Europe, and has continued to do so.
The Rossoneri paid a bargain price for the winger, and have had it paid back substantially. On the pitch, he is a star, off it, that follows. A brand in himself, the American market has shot since the arrival of their National Team star.
Pulisic’s impressions
With Allegri, the hopes are that he will only progress further. The Italian has a track record of making teams into winners, and that can only be a good thing for everyone, Pulisic included. Today, he spoke to Gazzetta dello Sport about everything, as seen below.
Pulisic, what do you think of the Milan performance against Arsenal and Liverpool?
“We played well in both games: we were solid, especially in the first half. We defended well and created some chances in attack. At this stage of the season, I think it’s important to face strong teams, and we can be satisfied with our start.”
So, is this the right path?
“Definitely, although it’s too early to make any judgments. It’s important to prepare as best we can now because we want to be in the best possible condition when the championship begins.”
What are your first impressions of Allegri?
“I think he’s started off on the right foot. He’s a coach who’s coached many champions, he knows how to talk to players, how to create the right rapport with the team, and he’s focusing on giving Milan significant defensive unity, an essential trait for creating scoring opportunities.”
The Livorno coach pointed the finger at the excessive goals conceded last year right from his presentation press conference.
“He’s right, because if we want to improve, we can’t concede as many goals as last season. It’s something we need to be careful about and work on. Not just the defenders, but the whole team, because we all defend together.”
In 2024-25 he scored more goals (17) than in his three seasons at Chelsea combined (15).
“Here at Milan, I’ve been given freedom from the start, and I feel the trust in me from everyone: from my teammates to the coach, from the directors to the fans. By acquiring me, the club has given me a great opportunity, and I have a duty to improve every year, to work hard to always take a step forward in terms of performance. If things go well, it won’t be a surprise to me, given what I do both during the year and in preseason to be 100% and give everything I can.”
At Milan, therefore, he feels more integrated, more at ease, more… at home than at Chelsea.
“That’s true, although it’s easier to say after having scored so many goals in the last two seasons. I’m having a lot of fun at Milan and I want to continue on this path, pushing as hard as I can.”
He scored 15 goals in 2023-24 and 17 goals in 2024-25. In 2025-26?
“My goal is to always do better.”
How has he improved since arriving in Serie A, a league that many describe as more tactical than the more physical Premier League?
“I also think Serie A is a very physical and tough tournament. Since I’ve been in Italy, I think I’ve improved in my decision-making on how to finish plays. I mean, the choice between a shot on goal and a final pass. For an attacking player like me, these are fundamental aspects.”
Will you miss the Champions League this year?
“Yes, because that’s where we want to be. Our goal is to qualify next year. The Champions League is the most exciting European competition, and Milan deserves to play in it.”
Are you impressed by Leao’s start, who, as a centre-forward, was unstoppable against Liverpool?
“I don’t know why people continue to doubt his potential. We know it well, and seeing him score like he did on Saturday against the Reds, after a great run of form, doesn’t surprise us. For me, he’s a top, top, top talent (he repeats it three times, ed.). Like the whole team, he just needs to find consistency and then he’ll become increasingly decisive.”
What can Modric bring to Milan?
“He’ll bring experience, an indispensable asset during matches. He’s been an exceptionally talented player for years: I watched him play as a fan, and then I even faced him. Taking the ball away from him is difficult, and he’s also a leader who will give Milan consistency and consistency. He’ll be invaluable on and off the pitch.”
What impression did Ricci make on you?
“I like him because he does simple things and never tries to exaggerate: he does what the team needs. He has excellent technique, he’s good at controlling the ball and passing it. I really admire his way of playing.”
And Saelemaekers?
“I spent preseason with him and saw his performances against Bologna and Roma. He has quality and makes himself useful on the pitch in many ways: dribbling, crossing, finishing, and closing down. He’s someone who never holds back.”
Do you like the left-back role that Allegri is using you in?
“I love playing in all positions, including this one. I’ve played there before, in a similar formation, and starting on the left is certainly not a problem.”
Napoli and Inter, the stars of last season’s championship, are strengthening their positions on the transfer market. Do you foresee another two-horse race for the Scudetto?
“There are many strong teams in Serie A. I don’t expect Napoli and Inter to go head-to-head all season because they’ll face several competitive opponents. We’ll try to win as many games as possible and finish as high as we can.”
Do you sometimes think about the World Cup scheduled for June and July?
It’s going to be a great season, and many players will want to play it to the fullest because it will be capped off by the World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. For me, playing in the World Cup in my country is a dream, and I want to work hard to be ready for the biggest event in world football. I’m thrilled to be there, but first I have a whole season to play for AC Milan. Right now, I’m focused solely on that, even if the World Cup is still in the back of my mind.
English (US) ·