Christian Pulisic explains how ‘pressure’ impacted ‘difficult’ spell at Chelsea – with confident USMNT star now thriving in Italy with AC Milan

United States international Pulisic moved to Stamford Bridge in 2019 having initially proven his worth in Europe with German giants Borussia Dortmund. He would become a Champions League winner while in west London, with the history books being rewritten there, but scored just 26 goals through 145 appearances.

Issues with form and fitness did Pulisic’s cause few favours, as a starting berth became difficult to nail down, and the decision was taken to embrace a new challenge in 2023 when leaving England and moving to Italy. The 26-year-old forward is now playing with a smile on his face at San Siro – despite currently nursing a knock.

Pulisic has told The Athletic of his reversal in fortune: “It’s not to say it’s easier now (at Milan) than it was with Chelsea, but there was a time in Chelsea where I felt on top of the world and I was playing great and that confidence and that no-fear mentality was easy to have. And there was also a time when that was extremely difficult because I wasn’t getting the time. I felt pressure that I needed to do more when I did get on the pitch in some kind of way. Now, I’m in a really good head space where I feel quite confident. I feel a lot of trust from the club in a lot of ways.”

Pressed further on whether those struggles represented the first setback of his senior career, Pulisic added: “For sure, it was difficult. I became very used to my environment in Chelsea. I learned so much, won a lot and was really happy with how things went in certain ways. But when it’s time for a change, you can feel it with all of your being. If I wanted to reach that next level, this is a step that I had to take.”

Pulisic went on to say of why he is now better placed to face the many challenges that his professional career presents: “Getting older! And understanding that the best in the world are so clear in the head that, for example, if they miss a chance, it doesn’t feel like the end of the world. Their whole body language does not define them. They know they’re going to get another because they’re that good and they’re getting into positions. It is about a clear head and understanding that you’re going to have better moments ahead.”

An untimely knock is keeping Pulisic sidelined at present, as he enjoys spending more time with golf pro partner Alexa Melton, but it should not take long for a calf complaint to clear up. Once back on the field, ‘Captain America’ will be looking to improve figures that have already seen him net 23 goals for Milan through 70 appearances.