Yesterday, the United States coach, Mauricio Pochettino, revealed that Christian Pulisic will not have to play in the friendly against Mexico, allowing him to return to Italy a few days earlier than expected.
According to Calciomercato.com, the American forward will be in Milan on Tuesday to start preparing with the squad for the crucial home match against Udinese.
Pulisic is crucial for Milan
USMNT's head coach, Mauricio Pochettino, raised concerns during the press conference before the friendly against Panama: "He’s playing every single game, every single minute, something that we are a little bit worried about. Sometimes we need to protect, because he arrived a little bit tired. But that’s something I’ve spoken about before, to be in a very good relationship with the club..."
This sentiment was already felt while watching the second half against Leverkusen and, to some extent, in the match at the Artemio Franchi stadium against Raffaele Palladino's Fiorentina. Pulisic has been an extremely important player for Milan since his arrival in Italy, thanks to his technical skill, consistent performance, and professionalism.
Not to mention his regular presence on the scoresheet with goals and assists. Beyond the alternatives available, Christian is undoubtedly a technical leader, and now Fonseca is asking him to become a charismatic leader in the locker room as well.
How will Fonseca and Milan manage Pulisic now?
Fonseca has listened to Pochettino's words, but it's unlikely he will heed this call, as per Calcio Mercato, at least not immediately.
At this stage of the season, with Milan lagging behind both in Serie A and in the Champions League, the Portuguese coach cannot afford to do without Pulisic's contributions in attack.
In addition to that, we should not forget about Samuel Chukwueze's injury. Therefore, noow the main backup for the American forward is unavailable. As for Noah Okafor, he can play on the right, but it's not his natural role.
The idea from the AC Milan club will be to manage Pulisic’s minutes within the match itself, for the good of the player and Milan's season, regardless of Pochettino's concerns
