After a difficult second half of the season with AC Milan, Christian Pulisic had hoped to rediscover his best form at the World Cup with the United States. Instead, things did not go as expected there either: he failed to score and suffered two injuries that significantly affected his performances.
The second injury will keep him out for several weeks, although he is targeting a return in time for the start of the Serie A season. Captain America did not enjoy the revival many had anticipated, but despite that, Ruben Amorim is counting heavily on him for the upcoming campaign.
Amorim left no doubt about his admiration for Pulisic during his unveiling press conference:
"Pulisic is a player of exceptional talent. He picked up an injury at the World Cup, so we'll have to assess his condition. But he's perfectly suited to Italian football, where teams defend very well. He can make a real difference with a capital D. I have a very clear idea of where I want him to play. On the left with his right foot, but he can also play on the opposite side. More importantly, I want him operating between the lines, not hugging the touchline. He's highly valued at the club, and the entire staff is behind him to help him perform at his very best. He's a very important player for us."
Like Gerry Cardinale and the rest of the Rossoneri hierarchy, Amorim has no intention of letting Pulisic go. In fact, he already knows exactly where he wants to use him: as one of the two attacking midfielders behind the centre-forward, with Pulisic occupying the left-sided role, as relayed via Milan News.
For Amorim, Pulisic is the undisputed first-choice player in that position.
As a result, it appears increasingly likely that Rafael Leão will have no place in Amorim's new-look Milan.
Although journalists naturally questioned Amorim about the former Lille winger during his presentation, the coach avoided making any firm statements, simply saying that Leão had enjoyed a good World Cup. Even so, there seems to be doubt about the Portuguese forward's future at Milanello. Further evidence of that comes from the role Amorim has earmarked for Pulisic, who is expected to play precisely in the area where Leão would otherwise feature.
