Christian Pulisic has quickly established himself as one of the top performers in Serie A, leading AC Milan to crucial results early in the 2024-25 season. With a goal and an assist in <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/milan-thank-pulisic-and-musah-for-growth-of-popularity-in-usa-20231119-WST-471386.html">Milan</a>‘s commanding 4-0 win over Venezia, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/pulisic-key-to-fonsecas-aim-of-recreating-spain-tactics-at-milan/">Pulisic</a> has taken the league by storm; cementing his place as one of the most influential players across Italy’s top flight. His rise coincides with a productive streak that places him at the forefront of goal contributions and chance creation in the league. What’s more, fellow American Yunus Musah is also climbing the ladder in the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/serie-a-tv-schedule/">Serie A</a> statistics.



<h2>Pulisic and Musah make mark on Serie A again</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240915_WST_529186_Pulisic-Musah-2-1200x675_16c22793.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-529222" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/09/Pulisic-Musah-2-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/09/Pulisic-Musah-2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/09/Pulisic-Musah-2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/09/Pulisic-Musah-2-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/09/Pulisic-Musah-2.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



In Milan’s most recent fixture, Pulisic played a pivotal role, earning his first MVP award of the season. The 25-year-old winger logged 79 minutes on the field, creating three offensive chances and winning five of his six duels. His contributions were instrumental in the victory, particularly his set-piece delivery and cool composure from the penalty spot. First, he provided an inch-perfect corner that led to Youssouf Fofana’s goal; then confidently slotted home a penalty for Milan’s third goal of the night.



His performance was described as “complete” <a href="https://www.milanpress.it/milan-venezia-pulisic-mvp-tifosi-dettagli/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">by fans and analysts alike</a>. He demonstrated his technical abilities; as well as his leadership on the field, further endearing himself to the Rossoneri fans at San Siro. His contributions to the squad’s defensive movements have also stood out, showcasing his all-around impact on the team’s play.



His early-season form has been nothing short of spectacular. With two goals and two assists in 328 minutes of play, Pulisic averages a goal contribution every 82 minutes. When compared to the 2023-24 season, where he had 12 goals and 9 assists in 2,621 minutes, this marks a significant improvement. Last season, he <a href="https://x.com/ManagerTactical/status/1835057334776631696" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">averaged a goal contribution every 124 minutes</a>; solid numbers, but his current pace suggests he could shatter that rate if he continues this level of play.



As noted by statistical analysts, Pulisic’s goal contribution rate could lead to more than 30 goal contributions this season; that is if he maintains his current form. According to <a href="https://x.com/OptaJack/status/1835046272346243215" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Opta Jack</a>, Pulisic is one of only two players in Serie A, alongside his Milan teammate Rafael Leao, to have recorded at least 10 goals and 10 assists since the start of last season. This achievement places him among an elite group of just 12 players in Europe’s top five leagues.



<h2>More challenging start for Musah</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240915_WST_529186_Pulisic-Musah-1-1-1200x675_85b7430a.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-529221" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/09/Pulisic-Musah-1-1-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/09/Pulisic-Musah-1-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/09/Pulisic-Musah-1-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/09/Pulisic-Musah-1-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/09/Pulisic-Musah-1-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



Beyond just goals and assists, Pulisic <a href="https://x.com/ManagerTactical/status/1835106405293965814" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">leads Serie A in several important categories. </a>He currently tops the league in goal contributions, expected goal contributions, and chances created. His creative prowess and finishing ability have been critical in Milan’s strong start, positioning him as a key figure in the team’s attack.



While the 25-year-old winger’s numbers are extraordinary, his influence extends beyond individual stats. His leadership, versatility, and experience playing in top European competitions have made him a central figure in Milan’s pursuit of success this season; both in Serie A and in Europe.



While Pulisic thrives, fellow American <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/third-year-in-row-sees-pulisics-milan-crowned-fastest-growing/">Yunus Musah</a> has had a more challenging start to the season. Musah, who joined AC Milan from Valencia over the summer, has found it difficult to secure a regular starting position under new manager Paulo Fonseca. The 21-year-old midfielder has only made one start so far, largely playing cameo roles in the closing minutes of games.



Musah’s lack of consistent playing time under Paulo Fonseca is concerning for both club and country. During the recent international break, his performances for the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/nations/usmnt-tv-schedule/">USMNT</a> were underwhelming, adding to the pressure he faces as he tries to establish himself in a competitive midfield. With the 2026 World Cup fast approaching, Musah will need more minutes to solidify his position under new USA coach <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/what-the-world-thought-of-us-signing-mauricio-pochettino/">Mauricio Pochettino</a>.



Despite these struggles, he has demonstrated his potential. Statistically, he ranks second in Serie A for shots per 90 minutes, showcasing his attacking instincts when given the opportunity. However, to truly make an impact, the central midfielder will need more game time and start to convert his chances.



PHOTOS: IMAGO

Pulisic and Musah take Serie A by storm with latest performances

Pulisic has quickly established himself as one of the top performers in Serie A, leading Milan to crucial results early in the season.

Pulisic and Musah take Serie A by storm with latest performances - World Soccer Talk

In terms of results, AC Milan’s U.S. tour was impeccable. They beat English Premier League powerhouse Manchester City before doing the same against LaLiga giants Real Madrid and Barcelona. But, with a minute remaining from the regular 90, Milan was in danger of losing to Torino in the Serie A opener.&nbsp;



A win for the Turin side would’ve been their first in San Siro against AC Milan in league play since 1985, but Paulo Fonseca’s timely substitutions secured a point for last season’s runners-up.



<h2>Supersubs for Milan against Torino</h2>



In hindsight, the game’s two biggest turning points involved European champion Alvaro Morata. On his return to Serie A soccer, the Spaniard nearly leveled the score before a late intervention by Torino’s heroic debutant Saul Coco.



Duvan Zapata doubled the lead for the visitors moments later, but Morata, one of Fonseca’s first three substitutes, had a second bite of the cherry before Noah Okafor salvaged the point with a 95th-minute strike. As expected, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/pulisic-could-switch-to-new-position-in-milan/">Christian Pulisic</a> played in an attacking midfield role.



Curiously, all five changes by the former LOSC Lille coach impacted the late foray. Tijani Reijnders and Yunus Musah assisted the goals for the striking duo. It’d have been quite sensational had Theo Hernandez, who dropped to the bench in favor of Alexis Saelemaekers, grabbed a winner with a powerful hit. Ali Dembele prevented further damage for Torino.



For comparison, Milan only avoided defeat in half of the games they went behind last season under Stefano Pioli. Swiss international Okafor also had five goals off the bench in the 2023/24 campaign, which was only one short of the league’s best and Empoli’s lifesaver, M’Baye Niang.



<h2>Memorable Musah cameo</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240817_WST_523371_Milan-Torino-1-1-1200x675_3c2e0cf9.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-523394" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/08/Milan-Torino-1-1-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/08/Milan-Torino-1-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/08/Milan-Torino-1-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/08/Milan-Torino-1-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/08/Milan-Torino-1-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



Special appreciation will also be reserved for a USMNT midfielder. But not for the usual suspect. Pulisic had a couple of great chances to open his tally before exiting the pitch by a fellow American. Musah’s entrance galvanized Milan’s attempt at getting back into the game.



Musah involved himself in <a href="https://x.com/OptaJack/status/1824918199940337675" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seven shots</a> playing only for 35 minutes. With Youssouf Fofana joining Milan’s midfield, Musah has to prove his worth to the new coach.



Musah dominantly played from the right flank, a position he had to fill on a few occasions last season. Earlier in the summer, Milan declined offers for their midfielder. Musah tied with Milan until 2028 and this appearance could be a springboard.&nbsp;



<h2>What’s next for the teams?</h2>



AC Milan’s next Serie A fixture is expected to write a new chapter. Their game against Parma, who drew with Fiorentina on Saturday, will be the first Serie A fixture on CBS television. It could prompt a <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/cbs-primed-to-break-serie-a-tv-ratings-record-for-parma-milan/">potential record audience</a> for the league in this region.&nbsp;



Torino’s next game will see Zapata reunited with his former Atalanta teammates. The last time the two clubs met, the Colombian striker received a wine as a gift from the fans of the Europa League champions.



Earlier in the day, both teams completed transfers. Milan’s new midfielder Fofana and Borna Sosa, who replaced Ricardo Rodriguez at Torino, will likely debut against Parma and Atalanta, respectively.



PHOTOS: IMAGO

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