FanSided MLS
·26 November 2024
In partnership with
Yahoo sportsFanSided MLS
·26 November 2024
Christian Pulisic continues to prove why he's the best American player of his generation. In AC Milan's 3-2 Champions League win over Slovan Bratislava, the USMNT star shone bright once again, scoring his 11th goal in the competition and extending his record as the all-time leading scorer for the United States in the tournament's history.
This display underlines Pulisic's importance not only in European football but also as the linchpin of the USMNT. His goal in the 21st minute was crucial as he led the Rossoneri through a nail-biting match that tested both the team's strategy and composure under Paulo Fonseca's leadership.
If there is one player who embodies the rise of soccer in the United States, it's Christian Pulisic. Since making his debut for the USMNT, he's carried the hopes of a nation with decisive performances and an uncanny ability to lead both on and off the field.
His goal against Bratislava marked his 11th in the Champions League, further solidifying his place as the top-scoring American in the tournament. To put it in perspective, Weston McKennie (5) and DaMarcus Beasley (4) trail far behind. But it’s not just the stats that stand out.
The coach of AC Milan, Paulo Fonseca, has been instrumental in Pulisic's growth in that he has given him free rein to move across the wings into the central attacking role with fluid ease. This allows Pulisic to express his skill set, whether creating for others or finishing for himself.
After the game, Pulisic looked back on this adaptability, "I always want to score goals and provide assists, whether on the right, left, or in the middle, it doesn't matter; what matters is to score and help the team win."
Following the win, Pulisic didn't refrain from addressing the areas needing improvement for his side: "We're happy with the three points, but we needed to play better. It's not easy playing here, we took the lead, they had chances, and we've got to do better."
These comments are a rare show of maturity. Pulisic understands that while results are important, consistency in performance is key to long-term success. It's a mindset shaped by years competing at the highest level from Borussia Dortmund to Chelsea. Pulisic is also a harbinger of what can happen in the United States on the pitch, thanks to his technical qualit.