Pulisic Shines Amidst Milan’s Challenges

Christian Pulisic has stood out as a rare source of optimism for AC Milan over the past 18 months, particularly as the team’s overall performance standards have declined, resulting in the absence of European football for the 2025-26 season.

Despite some fluctuations in form, Pulisic has consistently achieved personal milestones, netting 17 goals last season and is now being considered for a lucrative contract extension.

His market value could have increased even further had he converted several significant opportunities during the recent match against Fiorentina. In a somewhat atypical display, Pulisic was unable to capitalize on these chances as his teammate Christopher Nkunku scored a late equalizer. However, head coach Massimiliano Allegri has expressed his support for the American international, stating, “After just 15 minutes, we had three clear chances with Pulisic. Scoring reflects the approach, but when you miss, the outcome dictates judgment.”

Allegri continued, discussing the need for resilience in the face of unexpected challenges: “If Pulisic had scored three goals in Florence, we would be discussing a different narrative. He has a history of scoring, and I trust he will find the net again. Our focus must now shift to performance and mental fortitude as we navigate the second half of the season. There is no time left for errors.”

Former Milan manager Fabio Capello also defended Pulisic against criticism for his missed opportunities during the Fiorentina match, noting that only the legendary Brazilian forward Ronaldo would have converted some of those chances. Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, Capello stated, “Pulisic created several scoring opportunities, but unfortunately missed them. His mistakes were uncharacteristic, such as when he chose to dribble instead of shooting. However, the team’s overall attitude has been concerning.”

AC Milan has struggled in their last two Serie A matches and has drawn three of their last five, leaving them six points behind their rivals Inter at the top of the table and level with reigning champions Napoli, as the competition tightens.

With 19 matches remaining in the season, Allegri’s squad must strive for greater consistency to contend for their first title since the 2021-22 season. When asked if this iteration of Milan has what it takes to secure the Scudetto, Capello remarked, “If they play like they did in Florence, then definitely not. Although they showed promise earlier this season, they now seem to have stagnated. While six points separate them from Inter, Juventus and Roma are also closing in. Allegri is correct; the Rossoneri should prioritize securing a top-four finish before aiming for higher goals.”

Achieving a top-four position would grant Milan qualification for the next season’s Champions League, a target that could significantly impact contract negotiations with Pulisic, who is currently delaying the signing of an extension while assessing the club’s immediate future.