From the outside, it looked like another contract saga drifting toward an inevitable exit. But behind the scenes, something has shifted at Milan. With Christian Pulisic continuing to thrive as one of the team’s leaders on the pitch and Mike Maignan anchoring everything from the back, a sudden change of direction has given the Rossoneri fresh stability—and a major boost heading into the next phase of the project.
For months, the assumption around Milan was that its captain’s time was running out. His contract was approaching its final stretch, interest from the Premier League was real, and the possibility of leaving on a free transfer loomed large. From London to Manchester, suitors have been watching closely, convinced that patience would be rewarded.
Instead, the narrative has flipped. According to multiple reports from Italy, negotiations between the club and their No.1 have accelerated dramatically. The goalkeeper is now very close to signing a long-term extension that would keep him at San Siro until 2031, with a salary structure that places him among the highest earners in the squad. For a team built around balance and continuity, this is not just a renewal—it is a statement.
Stability at the back often defines success at the top end of the table. For an attacking player like Pulisic, knowing that one of Europe’s elite goalkeepers remains behind him changes the equation. Confidence flows forward when the defensive foundation is secure.
This is particularly relevant in a season where Milan is again pushing for domestic consistency and European credibility. Keeping their captain removes a major distraction and reinforces a dressing room identity built around trust, leadership, and shared ambition. In short, this is the kind of decision that lifts everyone—from the starting XI to those fighting for minutes.
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The story behind the reported change of heart
Just weeks ago, the French goalkeeper’s stance was very different. Talks had cooled significantly after a failed agreement the previous year, when an initial offer was later revised downward. Dialogue stalled. Frustration grew. The idea of leaving on a free transfer became not just realistic, but likely. So, what changed?
Several factors aligned at once, as per Italian reports. Firstly, Tuttosport points to the arrival of Massimiliano Allegri, which has proved decisive. The coach immediately made it clear that the captain was untouchable. He blocked a potential move to Chelsea, reaffirmed his role as leader, and publicly praised his importance. That show of trust mattered.
Second, the atmosphere within the squad shifted. Senior players spoke up—both publicly and privately—urging their captain to stay. The dressing room, by all accounts, became more united, more focused, and more aligned than it had been in previous months. And then there was a technical detail that shouldn’t be underestimated: the arrival of goalkeeping coach Claudio Filippi, a figure highly respected by the Frenchman. His presence helped reignite enthusiasm and coincided with a return to peak form on the pitch.
Goalkeeper Mike Maignan of AC Milan.
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Why Milan’s project now feels convincing
Beyond money and contracts, belief has returned. The goalkeeper has reportedly been impressed by how much the internal atmosphere has improved, from Milanello to the matchday environment. A competitive team, a clearer tactical identity, and a coach who restored a sense of mentality have all played their part.
As Tuttosport summarized, “A healthy dressing room, a team fighting at the top, and a coach who has restored a certain mentality are key factors that led the Frenchman to reconsider his position.” This is not just about staying. It is about believing in where the club is going.
