Christian Pulisic is using the international break at Milanello rather than joining the United States, a decision that reflects both his recent injury history and Milan’s need to have one of their key attacking players fully ready for the next stretch of the Serie A season.
The American has agreed with US coach Mauricio Pochettino to remain in Italy and continue his recovery work. Pochettino, whose contract has recently been extended until 2030, has allowed Pulisic to prioritise his condition after the forward’s difficult return from a small fracture to his right fibula.
Pulisic suffered the injury in July, during the round of 16 of the World Cup against Belgium. Although he is now feeling well, the after-effects had remained an issue until only a few weeks ago. Milan have welcomed the arrangement, particularly after previous concerns over the medical management of the player while away with his national team.
A return that changes Milan’s attacking picture
The 27-year-old watched Milan’s first three matches of the season from the sidelines before returning in Rome against Lazio. He made an immediate contribution there, setting up Moreira for Milan’s opening goal.
His next appearance, against Lecce, brought his first competitive goal of 2026. It was an important release after a long wait and strengthened his place in the attacking hierarchy. Pulisic has again become one of the established figures around whom Milan can build their forward line.
Speaking during a meeting with supporters at the Milan Store at San Siro after training at Milanello, Pulisic said his legs were beginning to respond again following the lay-off.
“I feel very good, especially after scoring,” he said. “It was a nice goal. My legs are getting back to where they should be after the injury and I am returning to form.”
He described the goal against Lecce as one of the best of his career and said comparison with Roberto Baggio’s famous finishes was an honour.
Contract talks remain open
Pulisic’s Milan contract renewal has not yet been completed, but the player made clear that he sees his future at the club.
“I am very happy at Milan, now and looking ahead,” he said. “I am not concentrating on a renewal at the moment, but I want to stay here. Are we discussing it with the club? Yes.”
He also offered supportive words for Milan owner Gerry Cardinale, saying the American has been more visible this season and continues to back the squad.
“We see Cardinale more this year. He is working well and we always have his support,” Pulisic said.
Amorim, competition and the No. 11 shirt
Pulisic said his work with coach Ruben Amorim has been positive, both collectively and personally. Amorim had previously described the winger as frustrated by his lack of minutes during the opening stage of the campaign, but Pulisic clarified that his feelings were shaped by the recovery process rather than any conflict with the coach.
“The beginning of the season was a little unusual for me,” he said. “Of course I always want to play, but I was not angry with him. I was coming back from injury. Now I feel well and hope to play more.”
With Milan’s No. 10 shirt available, Pulisic said he had not considered changing numbers and remains satisfied with No. 11.
He also praised fellow American Yunus Musah, calling him perhaps Milan’s best player so far this season. Pulisic noted that Musah had already played as an interior midfielder and described him as a top-level player, adding with a smile that the pair are working on improving Musah’s finishing.
There was also a defence of Ramos, with Pulisic stressing the forward’s work rate and character. “I have only good things to say about him,” Pulisic said. “He runs throughout the match, he is a great person and we work well together.”
For Milan, the break offers a rare chance to restore Pulisic without the demands of international travel. His goal against Lecce has brought momentum at the right time; the next task is to turn that return to fitness into a sustained role in Amorim’s season.
