Pulisic returns from start: Amorim banking on him to help end first-half struggles
By: Isak Möller
Christian Pulisic will make his first start for AC Milan this season against Lecce tonight, looking to build on what have been some very encouraging performances.
Due to an injury sustained at the World Cup, Pulisic wasn’t able to work properly with the Rossoneri during the pre-season. In turn, he wasn’t 100% fit for the first games of the season, only making his first cameo in the 2-2 draw against Lazio (45 minutes).
He got another 45 minutes against Benfica on Wednesday evening, and according to the latest from Gazzetta dello Sport, he’s now expected to get a spot from start. Considering Milan’s struggles in attack, this makes a lot of sense.
Positive impact so far
Looking at his performances so far, rated at 7/10 against Lazio and 6.5/10 against Benfica, it’s clear that he has added creativity that Milan have been lacking. The assist against the Biancocelesti proved that, but he also came close against the Portuguese side.
The likes of Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Alphadjo Cisse haven’t been as impressive in terms of creating chances, even if the youngster gets a pass for his contributions in crucial moments (two goals, after all). It’s very different from Pulisic, who has threatened every time he has got the ball.
Above all, it seems that the attacking midfield position suits him much better than the striker-esque role he had under Massimiliano Allegri. That’s a huge relief, as the struggles in the second half of the 2025-26 season had us all worried about his development.
Another factor worth considering is his contract deadline, which is currently set for June 2027. Milan have the option to extend it for another year (without Pulisic’s green light), but it would be better to find a more long-term solution.
At the end of last season, such a solution seemed impossible for various reasons, but a strong 2026-26 campaign would definitely change the situation. Hopefully, he will build on what we have seen so far against Lecce tonight.
