United States men’s national team (USMNT) star Christian Pulisic has proved to be a crucial component of AC Milan’s ongoing Serie A title charge this season. However, the ex-Chelsea attacker has attracted criticism from a legendary Italian former head coach.
But why was the 82-cap USMNT international scrutinized by the aforementioned pundit?
What Did an Ex-AC Milan Boss Say About Christian Pulisic’s Faults?
In his column for La Gazzetta dello Sport, former AC Milan and Real Madrid manager Fabio Capello stated Pulisic was too wasteful in a recent 1-1 Serie A away draw at Fiorentina.
“Pulisic did everything thanks to (Niclas) Fullkrug. The attacking duo created two or three chances out of nothing, but the American uncharacteristically missed them all. Mistakes uncharacteristic of him, like when he tried to beat (David) De Gea instead of shooting, even though there was no space: in that space, only Ronaldo Nazario could have beaten the goalkeeper and scored,” the five-time Serie A-winning tactician wrote.
Pulisic, who turned 27 in September, started AC Milan’s recent stalemate at Fiorentina as a second striker in Massimiliano Allegri’s 3-5-2 system. He combined with West Ham United loanee Niclas Fullkrug a couple of times, but failed to put the ball into the back of the net.
The former Borussia Dortmund man completed 27 of his 31 passes, created three chances, and registered just one shot on target in the Rossoneri‘s most recent match. He completed three of his six dribbles and also won six of his 10 total duels last Sunday, Jan. 11.
So far this season, Pulisic has started 11 of his 18 appearances in all competitions for Milan after struggling with fitness owing to hamstring and muscle issues. He has bagged 10 goals and laid out two assists, helping his side sit second in the Serie A standings now.
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Due to Pulisic’s run of decent form at club level, USMNT and Borussia Monchengladbach ace Giovanni Reyna has revealed he is rooting for the former Chelsea and Dortmund star.
“It’s great to see him changing the balance at Milan. He’s an inspiration to so many kids in America and, above all, to future generations. There’s not much to say: we’re talking about an extraordinary player, but at the same time, a very simple guy. He’s truly fantastic. I’m happy he’s doing well in Milan,” Reyna recently told journalist Alessandro Schiavone.
Overall, Pulisic has registered 31 goals and 19 assists in 118 total appearances for Milan.
