Pulisic Embraces New Challenges and Personal Growth in Italy

Christian Pulisic made his move to Italy in the summer of 2023, concluding a successful four-year tenure with Premier League powerhouse Chelsea, where he won the Champions League. He adapted swiftly to his new environment, netting 15 goals in his debut season, followed by an impressive 17 goals in his subsequent campaign.

At 27 years old, Pulisic has captured the hearts of a passionate fan base and is now affectionately regarded as an honorary Milanista. He has proven his capabilities on the pitch, although he acknowledges that his singing skills might leave something to be desired.

Typically not one to voice his opinions openly, Pulisic acknowledged that he reluctantly participated in team traditions when joining Milan. He still feels a sense of embarrassment recalling that moment and wishes he had taken a cue from his Ballon d’Or-winning teammate Luka Modric, who managed to bypass similar expectations.

In a conversation with Paramount+, Pulisic reflected on his transition to life with the Rossoneri: “I don’t usually raise my voice; I am more reserved and quiet among the group. That’s just my personality. However, I have grown throughout my career and am becoming more comfortable expressing myself.”

On the matter of initiation rituals, he humorously confirmed, “Did Modric give us iPhones as an initiation rite? Yes, but I didn’t know this was common knowledge. You are expected to sing for the team, but when you’re Luka Modric, you can skip that. And who would say no to new iPhones? It’s a win-win.”

Pulisic shared his initiation song experience, calling it “embarrassing.” He performed Miley Cyrus’s ‘Party in the USA,’ a choice he deemed fitting, but one that he now views as one of the most uncomfortable moments of his career. “I hate it; it makes me cringe to see others feeling so uneasy.”

Despite his rising celebrity status, Pulisic strives to maintain a low profile. He refrains from showcasing his life on social media, though he appeared in a documentary for Paramount+ in 2024. He explained, “It’s not that I don’t trust social media; I just prefer not to add unnecessary noise about myself. Some people are comfortable sharing their lives, which is fine, but I value my privacy. I don’t engage much with social media; it’s easier to delete apps than to face negative comments.”

Pulisic expressed some regrets about participating in the documentary, questioning his decision but ultimately recognizing its purpose: “It was challenging to allow people into my life, but it was important to inspire young fans ahead of the World Championships. Sharing my journey was tough to relive, especially when it involves watching myself speak.”

Now, after overcoming a fitness setback, Pulisic is eager to return to the pitch. Although he has not been named in the latest USMNT squad, he is expected to play a pivotal role under Mauricio Pochettino’s management, potentially leading the team as captain during the home World Cup in the summer of 2026.