The latest development could have a major impact on how Ruben Amorim manages one of his most important attacking players, although there is still some uncertainty over what comes next.
Christian Pulisic has given Milan an important boost just days before the start of the Serie A season, with the American edging closer to a competitive return after a frustrating summer. The latest development could have a major impact on how Ruben Amorim manages one of his most important attacking players, although there is still some uncertainty over what comes next.
Pulisic has been sidelined since the United States’ World Cup campaign ended in disappointing fashion against Belgium. The 27-year-old suffered a bone bruise and microfracture in his lower leg after striking the leg of Belgium midfielder Youri Tielemans while attempting to shoot.
The injury came after Pulisic had already battled a calf problem during the tournament, making his recovery particularly important. He initially expected to have time to recover after the World Cup, but the setback ultimately ruled him out of Milan’s entire preseason under new head coach Ruben Amorim.
“I just totally twisted my ankle and my knee in one play,” Pulisic said following the injury. “I mean, whatever. I have time to rest. It’s just an unfortunate way to finish.” Now, however, there is genuine reason for optimism at Milanello. The 27-year-old has already returned to partial work with the squad, and MilanNews journalist Antonio Vitiello reports that the winger has been cleared to resume full group training on Friday, August 21.
Into week 1 of the season 👀Brought to you by @play_eFootball pic.twitter.com/areoWY8oUs— AC Milan (@acmilan) August 18, 2026
Milan receives timely boost before Serie A opener
The timing could hardly be more significant for Milan, which is preparing for its first competitive match of the new campaign. The club travels to face Torino in the Serie A opener, with Amorim still assessing which players are ready to handle the demands of the new season.
Pulisic was still working separately on Thursday alongside Rafael Leao and Santiago Gimenez, who are also continuing their respective recovery plans. The key difference for the American is that he has now received the green light to rejoin his teammates for collective training.
The development represents a clear improvement from earlier in the week, when Pulisic was only able to complete part of the session. It also suggests that his rehabilitation has progressed without any major setbacks, even though his lack of preseason minutes remains a concern.
Christian Pulisic of AC Milan looks on
Will Pulisic make the Torino squad?
This is where the situation becomes more complicated. A return to full group training does not automatically mean Pulisic will be included in Milan’s squad against Torino, particularly after he has spent more than six weeks away from competitive play.
Reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport have indicated that the American is still unlikely to feature in the Serie A opener, with the club preferring to give him additional time to rebuild his match fitness. The possibility of a return could instead arrive for the Rossoneri’s first home league fixture against Venezia on August 28.
That approach would allow Pulisic to spend several more days working under Amorim and adapting to the manager’s tactical demands. After missing the entire preseason, throwing him straight into a competitive match could carry unnecessary risks.