Christian Pulisic as a false nine for AC Milan? Why USMNT star may get new role after two-goal start in Serie A

The United States international has enjoyed much of his success across a productive senior career to date when operating in a wide attacking role. He can perform on either flank, with his hard running and creative ability being put to good use on the wing.

Pulisic has, however, netted in both of his Serie A appearances for Milan so far and – as they are short on striking options behind veteran frontman Olivier Giroud – he may be asked to play more centrally in future. Pioli has said when asked if the 24-year-old could be used as a false nine: “It’s all possible in football when there are essential factors, such as the quality of players and their desire to be available. Right now, I think it’s important to give certainties to the team because we have changed a lot.”

Former Chelsea star Pulisic has been joined at San Siro this summer by international team-mate Yunus Musah. He is being eased into the fold following a switch from Valencia, with Pioli adding on his new recruits: “They [new signings] are working well. [Noah] Okafor is recovering from an injury, maybe he is a little behind, but he’s improving. Musah and [Samuel] Chukwueze had a tricky summer too. They didn’t play friendly games but they are ready to play from minute one.”

Milan, who have taken maximum points from their two Serie A games so far in 2023-24, will be back in action on Friday when taking in a trip to Roma that will see them come up against Jose Mourinho and new Giallorossi recruit Romelu Lukaku.