Pulisic's frustration over bench time sparks promise of weekend minutes

Ruben Amorim, the Portuguese manager of AC Milan, confirmed on Friday that United States forward Christian Pulisic is "upset" about not having played a single minute for the club this season. The coach hinted that the situation may change over the upcoming weekend, when Milan faces a congested fixture list, and Pulisic could finally be given a chance to influence a match on the pitch.

Amorim’s comments came during a pre‑match press conference, where he was asked about the American’s lack of involvement. He said the player’s frustration was understandable, noting that Pulisic arrived in Milan with high expectations after a €30 million transfer from Chelsea in July 2023. "He wants to help the team, and he’s eager to get on the field," Amorim told reporters, adding that the coaching staff is monitoring his training performance closely.

The United States captain has struggled to break into a midfield that already features seasoned internationals such as Sandro Tonali, Rafael Leão and Suso. Since joining the Rossoneri, Pulisic has been limited to occasional appearances on the bench, a situation that contrasts sharply with his starring role for the USMNT, where he has been a regular starter since the 2018 World Cup.

Background: Pulisic’s move to Milan was seen as a statement of intent for both player and club. The 27‑year‑old, often dubbed “the face of American soccer,” was expected to bring creativity and a goal‑scoring threat to a side that finished second in Serie A last season. However, the transition to Italian football can be challenging; the league’s tactical rigidity and defensive emphasis have sidelined several high‑profile signings in the past. Moreover, Amorim only took over as Milan’s head coach in June 2024, inheriting a squad in flux and a demanding schedule that includes Champions League commitments. The upcoming weekend fixtures—against a mid‑table Serie A opponent and a Europa League tie—could provide a low‑risk environment for Amorim to test Pulisic’s readiness.

If Pulisic does receive minutes, the impact could extend beyond Milan’s immediate results. A productive showing would bolster his confidence ahead of the United States’ next international window and reaffirm his marketability as one of the Premier League’s most recognizable American exports. For Milan, integrating a player of Pulisic’s caliber could add a new dimension to their attacking options as they chase domestic and European silverware.

Amorim concluded by urging patience, stating that the coaching staff will continue to evaluate squad depth and that “the best players earn their place through hard work and adaptation.” Fans and pundits alike will be watching closely to see whether the promised weekend appearance materialises and how it influences both Milan’s campaign and Pulisic’s standing with the US national team.