New Delhi: AC Milan new signing Christian Pulisic has revealed that a conversation with AC Milan manager Stefano Pioli played a key role in his decision to join the club from Chelsea. The USMNT star has expressed frustration with his time at Chelsea, saying Pioli’s words helped him persuade him to move from the Premier League to Serie A.

Pulisic reveals Pioli strategy

Speaking at his first press conference as a Milan player, Pulisic said: “The decision to come here was made after a discussion with Pioli. I knew right away that he wanted to bring me here. He told me, concretely and directly, to give everything for this team. Our conversation didn’t last long, but it was enough to convince me to move to Milan.”

Milan finds new hero in Pulisic

As Milan look to rebuild their squad following the departures of key players such as Sandro Tonali and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Pulisic will be crucial to their attack next season. Pulisic, 24, hopes this move to Serie A will boost his career after two dominant seasons at Chelsea.

Milanese are eager to see him in action and hope he can make an impact next season. Pulisic began his professional journey at Borussia Dortmund before moving to Chelsea in January 2019 for an estimated £58 million transfer fee. The deal made him the most expensive North American player of all time.

Pulisic career at Chelsea

Pulisic’s tenure at Chelsea has been marked by both triumphs and challenges. He made his Premier League debut for Chelsea on 11 August 2019 and scored his first goal for the club on 26 October of the same year, scoring a hat-trick in a 4–2 away win over Burnley. This feat made him the youngest hat-trick scorer in Chelsea history at the age of 21 years and 38 days.

In four seasons at Chelsea, Pulisic made 145 appearances, scoring 26 goals and providing 21 assists. Despite injuries, he has played a crucial role in Chelsea’s success, including winning the Champions League in 2021. He became Chelsea’s youngest player to score in a semi-final and the first American to play in a Champions League final.

Pulisic’s time at Chelsea was not without problems. His role has diminished in recent seasons due to injuries and frequent management changes. Despite these challenges, Pulisic left a lasting impression on the club and its fans.

In July 2023, after four years at Chelsea, Pulisic made a permanent move to AC Milan, marking the end of his memorable stint with the Blues.