While the right side of our attack has long been a problematic position, have AC Milan found a potential long-term solution in Christian Pulisic?
It is of course still too early to give a definitive answer as two Serie A games is nowhere near a big enough sample size, but there is no doubt that there are positive early signs.
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The 24-year-old has bagged two goals in two games to start the new season, and beyond his goals, he is having an important influence on our play in and out of possession.
From Alexis Saelemaekers and Junior Messias in recent seasons and going back further to the likes of Samu Castillejo and Suso, the Rossoneri haven’t been able to find a consistent source of quality on that flank to match what’s produced elsewhere.
That has long led to an imbalance in the side, with an over-reliance on the likes of Rafael Leao, Olivier Giroud and before them Zlatan Ibrahimovic to deliver goals and quality in the final third, while the best we’ve hoped for on the right side has been a good work ethic and an occasional moment of magic.
Pulisic though is showing an ability to pair his tireless work-rate with a decisive touch, and when we add his tactical versatility, movement, energy, speed and the way in which he has slotted into our system and built chemistry with his teammates already, the positive signs can’t be ignored.
Again, it’s important to remember that it’s only been two games, but the USA international is making an immediate impression and suggesting that he could be an integral part of our plans moving forward with his peak years still very much ahead of him.
Along with his goal, Pulisic had 38 touches, 96 percent passing accuracy, one key pass, won four of six duels and was a key defensive presence with his tracking back and pressure higher up the pitch.
“A great player, very intelligent,” Stefano Pioli described him as in his post-match interview. With games against Roma and Inter to come next, that will give us an indication of whether or not he can deliver in big games for us too against tougher opposition, but you certainly wouldn’t put it past him based on what we’ve seen thus far.
As well as his individual strengths and attributes, the way in which he has linked up with Giroud and Ruben Loftus-Cheek in particular in our opening two encounters has been great to watch, and there is a feel that he is perhaps just generally better-suited to Serie A and will thrive with us.
The challenge for Pulisic now though is to stay fit, continue to produce consistently and to play a key role in the team’s progression and development this season as Pioli continues to get more out of his new-look group.
Milan look a more balanced and unpredictable attacking unit thus far, and if we can continue to lessen the burden on Leao to create everything down the left flank, it can only be a good thing for our prospects and bid for success this season.