AC Milan boss explains Christian Pulisic’s position change

The United States international was trialed in a new position during AC Milan’s most recent game.

Christian Pulisic’s on-field intelligence convinced AC Milan manager Stefano Pioli to test him as an advanced playmaker.

Pioli tested Pulisic out in a No.10 position during AC Milan’s 4-1 Coppa Italia victory over Cagliari. The 25-year-old played alongside Samuel Chukwueze and Rafael Leao. He was on for 19 minutes as a second-half substitute and got an assist for Leao’s late goal.

“It was there from the beginning, we vary a lot,” Pioli explained.

“I would really like Pulisic as a Trequartista [advanced playmaker], he’s a very intelligent player. Now, with Chukwueze’s injury, it narrows down one more solution, but we’ll see.”

Pulisic joined AC Milan from Chelsea last summer in a reported €20 million deal.

The American, who typically plays as a winger, has enjoyed a fine start to his career in Italy. He has been a regular starter in Pioli’s team, with seven goals and five assists contributed in 23 appearances.

AC Milan will hope Pulisic can continue his good form in Sunday’s visit to Empoli in Serie A.

Christian Pulisic as a number 10 is deadly. His ability to turn in midfield and pass with either foot makes him top tier. I don’t know why we haven’t seen this sooner. It is a massive weapon for Milan Pioli should use. #USMNT

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— USACFC (@USACFC_) January 2, 2024