Christian Pulisic told to become 'a leader' at AC Milan by Zlatan Ibrahimovic after USMNT star enjoyed 'best season of his career' after joining from Chelsea

The United States men's national team attacker, who joined the Serie A giants from Chelsea last summer, appeared in 50 matches across all competitions in the 2023/24 season where he scored 15 goals and provided 11 assists.

After enjoying a successful debut campaign with the Italian side, Pulisic has now been urged by Rossoneri advisor and former Sweden star Zlatan Ibrahimovic to prove himself as a leader at San Siro. This is only the second time in his professional career, including his time at Borussia Dortmund and Chelsea, that Pulisic reached doubles figures in goals in a single campaign.

Speaking on ESPN's First Take, the 42-year-old said, "I think he had the best season of his career with us last year. If you're happy off the pitch, then you bring it onto the pitch. He had a wonderful year, he scored a lot of goals and provided assists. He felt free, he came to us and showed himself for what he is. I expect him to be able to do even more this season and to grow as a leader. We're a young team, we need him."

The 2021/22 Serie A champions will play their final pre-season friendly in the United States on August 7 against Barcelona before kicking off the new season against Torino on August 18.