AC Milan boss Stefano Pioli explains what makes Christian Pulisic a 'great player' after seeing USMNT star score crucial winning goal against Sassuolo

The former Chelsea forward fired Milan to a narrow 1-0 victory in the final match of 2023 on Saturday with a calm finish after being set up by Ismael Bennacerin the 59th minute at San Siro. The U.S. national team talisman's impressive form for the Rossoneri has been vital for Pioli's side as Rafael Leao and Olivier Giroud are both currently going through an extended home goal drought in the Italian top flight.

Speaking after the victory, Pioli said: "Everyone can think and say what they want, but Chris is a great player. He has quality, intensity and willingness. He's scoring a lot too which isn't always easy for a winger. He can play in a number of roles. He is a great guy in the way he approaches and prepares for a game."

Pulisic's goal earned a much-needed three points for Milan, who are nine points behind leaders Inter in the Scudetto race at the halfway stage of the season. The Rossoneri sit third in the league table on 36 points, three points ahead of fourth-placed Fiorentina, with Pulisic boasting 10 goal contributions from 16 appearances. The 25-year-old's consistency will no doubt be pleasing USMNT manager Gregg Berhalter ahead of the Spring's Nations League semifinals and the Copa America on home soil next summer.

Pulisic will hope to continue his rich vein of form heading into 2024. Milan will return to action on January 2 in the Coppa Italia against Cagliari, before shifting attention to Serie A action once again the following weekend against Empoli.