Christian Pulisic Delivers Thunderous Statement That Rocks Serie A

Though carefully avoiding any bold predictions he might later rue, AC Milan striker Christian Pulisic acknowledged that Sunday's derby victory against Inter "delivers a statement" to Serie A that the Rossoneri remain genuine title contenders.

The United States international netted the decisive goal in this latest chapter of the famous European clash, finishing from close quarters following a characteristic swift attacking move. Pulisic and his attacking teammates owed much to their shot-stopper, Mike Maignan, who produced six remarkable saves throughout the match, including a crucial stop to thwart Hakan Çalhanoğlu's spot-kick.

The victory elevated Milan to second place, matching defending titleholders Napoli on points and sitting just two points behind table-toppers Roma.

Serie A Table After Matchday 12

"Major displays like this against top sides really benefit us," Pulisic commented after the match. "Absolutely, [it] delivers a statement to the entire league hopefully, but we must continue pushing forward and establishing consistency."

This cautious mindset just 12 matches into a 38-game season was apparent. "For our part, we're not fixated on where we aim to be at the summit throughout the entire campaign," Milan's top goalscorer observed. "It's about being there when it matters most, so we approach it match by match."

This mentality has undoubtedly benefited Pulisic tremendously this season.

Pulisic On Course for Career-Best Campaign

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Everything regarding Pulisic appears more streamlined this campaign. While his decision to skip international duty has ruffled some feathers—despite Mauricio Pochettino seemingly moving past last summer's Gold Cup absence—this direct approach to prioritizing his fitness before the 2026 World Cup has clearly yielded results.

On the field, Pulisic's play demonstrates that same focused intensity. Increasingly utilized as part of a fluid attacking partnership in Massimiliano Allegri's preferred 3-5-2 formation, the traditional winger has simplified his game to emphasize goal contributions above all else. Pulisic is taking fewer dribbles and attempting more shots, freed from extensive defensive responsibilities to concentrate on arriving in the penalty box whenever possible.

All five of Pulisic's strikes this season have come from inside 15 yards of the target. Indeed, he's attempted just one effort in Serie A from outside the penalty area this term as he focuses on his increasingly defined objective. Considering Milan's explosive campaign start, the Serie A championship could represent another achievable target.