“I always want to be the best version of myself and help my team win.” – Christian Pulisic.

From a teenage sensation at Borussia Dortmund to Chelsea’s ‘American Golden Boy’ and now a rising star at AC Milan, Pulisic has lived this mantra every step. The Pennsylvania-born player often struggled to nail down a consistent starting spot, thanks to injuries and a lack of trust from his coaches in the Premier League. “

Of course, there were definitely times where I wish I could’ve gotten much more of an opportunity,” Pulisic told last year.

Yet, through it all, he always ran ahead and never backed down, whether through the grind that was the Premier League or lit up among the stars in Serie A, this pretty much sums up the thrill of the journey that this

USMNT captain has passed. But what’s really been the key to his transformation? The answers might surprise you…

Pulisic talks about finding a fresh start at Milan after Chelsea struggles

“During my last two seasons at Chelsea, I suffered injuries and some managerial changes didn’t help. It’s been exactly the opposite at Milan. I’ve felt the trust of everyone from day one. It was a big turning point.” Pulisic gave an interview to Il Giornale. Christian Pulisic’s time at Chelsea was marked by challenges under managers Frank Lampard, Thomas Tuchel, and Graham Potter.

Despite a strong finish to his first season with four goals and two assists in his final nine games, competition from players like Hakim Ziyech and Mason Mount hindered his consistency. Injuries and tactical shifts also disrupted his progress. Tuchel’s public criticism of Pulisic, especially after a poor substitute appearance, fueled speculation about a strained relationship. Frustration grew over his limited playing time despite his potential. Pulisic moved to AC Milan for a fresh start.

But why Milan? According to Pulisic, head coach Stefano Pioli played a big role in convincing him to make the move. “The decision to come here came after talking to Pioli. He told me to be concrete and direct, to give everything to this team,” said Pulisic. “That conversation didn’t last very long, but it was enough to convince me.” Pioli sees Pulisic as a key piece in rebuilding Milan’s attack following the departures of Zlatan Ibrahimović and Sandro Tonali. And Milan and its legends have already accepted the American.

Captain America has Zlatan’s seal of approval and of Milan

Christian Pulisic doesn’t do fame the way some of soccer’s flashiest stars do. While players like David Beckham and Zlatan Ibrahimović revel in the glitz and glamor, Pulisic has always played it cool—humble, almost like fame is just an annoying byproduct of his game. But being an AC Milan legend and his former teammate, Zlatan has a lot of fondness for him. “Christian Pulisic is our ‘Captain America’ – he is doing extraordinary things. Even off the pitch, he is also crucial for us,” said the Swede, as he spoke to the Champions League magazine.

The 2024-25 season has been a hugely positive one so far for Pulisic. He has become the most consistently dangerous attacker for one of the world’s great soccer institutions. Fans in Milan praise him, with one calling him “the king of Milan” after just two years. His rapid success has defied expectations, making him a beloved figure in Italy. But Pulisic isn’t one to get too comfortable. As Pulisic put it: “Bring it on.”