US men’s national team figure Christian Pulisic has joined Italian side AC Milan from Chelsea and is more than excited for what is to come.
After over 140 appearances at Chelsea, the American figure is ready for a new challenge and believes he made the right choice in making the move to the seven time UEFA Champions League winners, citing conversations with Milan boss Stefano Pioli as impactful.
“I think he made me feel like he wanted me here, he wanted me to be a part of this team and he saw me fitting into this team, and that’s what I wanted to hear,” Pulisic said.
“Obviously I want a fair opportunity like everyone else to have the chance to come here. I still need to earn my place, of course, but it felt like I was wanted here and I have a great opportunity, if I show good effort, good attitude every day and train well, that I’m going to get the opportunity to go out and perform.”
While the 24-year-old expressed his excitement about joining the Rossoneri, he also remarked on how his time with Chelsea wasn’t exactly what he had hoped for, wishing he had more chances to make his mark at Stamford Bridge.
“Of course there are definitely times where I wish I could’ve gotten more of an opportunity and been that guy, but yeah, for whatever reason, that’s not the case, and like I said, I’m just so excited for this new challenge and I’m definitely ready and up for it,” he continued.
The chance to play for one of the biggest clubs in the world in Milan is already a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but Pulisic believes that it will only continue his development as a player on the international stage with the USMNT.
“I think it’s just another massive opportunity and experience for me to learn and grow as a player,” he continued.
“Playing in a new league, a new challenge for me, it’s just going to test me that much more, and when those big moments like Copa America and stuff come around, I’m just going to be that much more battle tested, and that’s how I feel with coming to a new club, getting to play in all different types of new games and playing new team.
“And when those things [Copa America, World Cup] come around with the national team, I know I’ll be in top form and be ready.”
