Serie A
Comments

Christian Pulisic faces ambitious challenge: Can he top his best season yet with AC Milan?

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, Pulisic’s preparation this year is crucial—not only for AC Milan’s campaign but also for his leadership role with the USMNT.
© Marco Luzzani/Getty ImagesWith the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, Pulisic’s preparation this year is crucial—not only for AC Milan’s campaign but also for his leadership role with the USMNT.

The controversy surrounding Christian Pulisic last summer is now firmly in the past. The USMNT captain made the bold decision to prioritize rest and dedicate himself to preseason training with AC Milan rather than overextend during the international window.

His focus was clear: to start the 2025-26 campaign in top form. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon, every step of preparation this season is critical, both for Milan and for his role as the leader of the United States national team.

The time has arrived. On Sunday, AC Milan officially begins its journey in the Coppa Italia, facing Bari in what will be their first competitive match of the season. Just a week remains before the kickoff of the new Serie A campaign, and expectations around Pulisic’s impact are sky-high. After an impressive first two years in Milan, fans and teammates alike are eager to see if the American star can elevate his game to even greater heights.

Pulisic’s slight injury picked up in preseason against Liverpool is no longer an issue. The winger is now fully fit and ready to go. Under new coach Massimiliano Allegri, the so-called “Captain America” is projected to play a key role in Milan’s tactical setup, with responsibilities both in attack and as a leader in transition play. Allegri’s system promises to test Pulisic’s versatility, but also gives him a fresh opportunity to become indispensable for the Rossoneri.

Pulisic’s record-breaking season

Last season was a landmark year for the American. Pulisic recorded 17 goals and 12 assists across 50 matches, setting personal bests in European football. His consistency, fitness, and ability to deliver in decisive moments silenced many critics who had questioned his move from Chelsea to Milan. These numbers not only established him as one of Milan’s top performers but also made him a central figure in Serie A’s international spotlight.

Advertisement
Christian Pulisic vs. Luka Modric: USMNT star’s $6M salary compared to AC Milan’s new signing

see also

Building on that success, Pulisic is now determined to lead Milan in its pursuit of trophies both domestically and in Europe. His progression is especially significant considering the growing influence of American players in Europe, with his performances serving as a benchmark for the next generation.

Eyes on the World Cup

With Allegri guiding Milan and a reinforced squad around him, Pulisic is entering the most pivotal phase of his career. His mission is clear: maintain peak form to carry Milan toward silverware while ensuring he reaches the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada in the best shape of his career. For Pulisic, this season is not just about Milan—it’s about cementing his legacy as the face of American soccer on the global stage.

Serie A 2025 TV Schedule and Streaming Links in the USA

see also

200+ Channels & Local Sports
200+ Channels & Local Sports
  • Price: Plans starting at $14.99/mo (Latino)
  • Watch Ligue 1, Copa Libertadores & World Cup Qualifiers
Every MLS Match in One Place
Every MLS Match in One Place
  • Price: $12.99/mo (Now included with standard subscription)
  • Watch every MLS regular season game, Playoffs & Leagues Cup
Many Sports & ESPN Originals
Many Sports & ESPN Originals
  • Price: $11.99/mo (or ESPN Unlimited for $29.99/mo)
  • Features LaLiga, Bundesliga, FA Cup & NWSL
2,000+ Soccer Games Per Year
2,000+ Soccer Games Per Year
  • Price: Starting at $8.99/mo
  • Features Champions League, Serie A & Europa League
Home of the Premier League
Home of the Premier League
  • Price: Starting at $10.99/mo
  • 175+ Exclusive EPL matches per season
    EDITORS’ PICKS
    Federico Valverde vs Aurelien Tchouameni’s Real Madrid training incident adds fuel as Barcelona stirs controversy with ‘one big family’ dig ahead of El Clasico

    Federico Valverde vs Aurelien Tchouameni’s Real Madrid training incident adds fuel as Barcelona stirs controversy with ‘one big family’ dig ahead of El Clasico

    Real Madrid finds itself in the middle of one of the most chaotic dressing-room stories in recent memory, with Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni at the center of escalating tensions that have spilled from the training ground into the hospital and now into club-wide disciplinary action. The situation comes just days before El Clasico, while […]

    El Clasico build-up turns toxic for Real Madrid as Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni’s two possible heavy punishments revealed, and it doesn’t look good

    El Clasico build-up turns toxic for Real Madrid as Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni’s two possible heavy punishments revealed, and it doesn’t look good

    With Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni now at the center of a major internal controversy, concerns are growing over how the situation could affect the team during the most decisive stage of the season.

    How to watch Independiente Medellin vs Flamengo in the USA: Live Stream and TV for 2026 Copa Libertadores

    How to watch Independiente Medellin vs Flamengo in the USA: Live Stream and TV for 2026 Copa Libertadores

    Independiente Medellin receive Flamengo on Matchday 4 of the 2026 Copa Libertadores group stage. Viewers across the USA can follow the match live, with full details available here, with kickoff times and broadcast or streaming options.

    How to watch Carabobo vs River Plate in the USA: Live Stream and TV for 2026 Copa Sudamericana

    How to watch Carabobo vs River Plate in the USA: Live Stream and TV for 2026 Copa Sudamericana

    Carabobo face River Plate on Matchday 4 of the 2026 Copa Sudamericana group stage. Viewers in the United States can watch the matchup live—here’s all the essential information on kickoff time and broadcast or streaming options.

    World Soccer Talk © 2025. Made in Florida.

    World Soccer Talk, like Futbol Sites, is a company owned by Better Collective. All rights reserved. World Soccer Talk is reader-supported and may earn a commission through our partner links.

    Better Collective Logo