Christian Pulisic’s long-awaited return has created another intriguing subplot ahead of Ruben Amorim’s first competitive game in charge of Milan. The American attacker has worked his way back into contention after 44 days on the sidelines, but his involvement against Torino was always going to depend on how quickly the coaching staff felt he could […]
Christian Pulisic’s long-awaited return has created another intriguing subplot ahead of Ruben Amorim’s first competitive game in charge of Milan. The American attacker has worked his way back into contention after 44 days on the sidelines, but his involvement against Torino was always going to depend on how quickly the coaching staff felt he could return to competitive action.
The timing could hardly be more interesting for Milan, with the Serie A opener arriving after a turbulent summer. Amorim has gradually shaped his squad and tactics during pre-season, and Pulisic’s recovery has given him another attacking option at precisely the moment when the stakes are about to rise.
Pulisic suffered a microfracture and bone oedema in the tibia and fibula of his right leg during the Club World Cup. The initial expectation was that the injury would keep him out for around four to six weeks, but his recovery has progressed well enough for him to return to full group training at Milanello.
MilanNews reported that Pulisic had rejoined his teammates just two days before Milan’s opening match. After 44 days away from the squad, the 27-year-old’s return to normal training represented a major step toward competitive play.
Images from the session provided further encouragement, with Pulisic pictured smiling alongside his teammates during a rainy training session. His return to the group suggested that the rehabilitation phase had gone well and that he was ready to be considered for the squad again.
Amorim makes the call on Pulisic
The mystery surrounding Pulisic’s involvement has now been resolved. Pulisic has been included in Milan’s squad for Sunday’s away match against Torino, giving Amorim the option of bringing the American into the game if the circumstances are right.
However, the American is expected to begin on the bench, rather than immediately returning to the starting XI, according to MilanNews. That approach would allow Milan to manage his workload carefully after a lengthy absence while still giving Amorim a potentially dangerous option later in the match.
A 20-to-30-minute cameo could be an ideal way to reintroduce Pulisic to competitive action. Milan have little reason to take unnecessary risks with a player who could become an important part of Amorim’s plans throughout a long Serie A campaign.
Amorim prepares for his first Serie A test
Pulisic’s return comes as Milan prepares for a new era under Amorim. The former Manchester United manager has used pre-season to experiment with his ideas, including the 3-4-2-1 system that is expected to shape the team’s approach this season.
Milan’s preparations have been mixed, with a draw against Celtic, another stalemate against Inter, a defeat to Chelsea and a confidence-boosting victory over Manchester United. The win against United provided some much-needed momentum before the competitive campaign finally begins.
Amorim has also made difficult decisions regarding several players who have been excluded from his plans. At the same time, new arrivals such as Goncalo Ramos, Diego Moreira and Mario Gila have given the Portuguese coach more options as he attempts to rebuild the side.