Christian Pulisic, the United States’ standout, achieved a milestone in his career, reaching double figures in goals for the first time in a league season with his impressive strike initiating AC Milan’s 3-0 victory over 10-man Lecce in Serie A on Saturday.
Pulisic’s early goal, his 10th in the Italian league, surpassed his previous best of nine goals scored during the 2019-20 English Premier League season while playing for Chelsea. Additionally, the winger has contributed three goals in European competitions, showcasing his enhanced scoring prowess this season.
The 25-year-old Pulisic, who joined Milan last summer in search of a fresh start after his tenure at Chelsea, received accolades from Milan manager Stefano Pioli following his impactful performance.
“I knew Pulisic’s quality, but when we talked on a video call, I sensed something very positive. He was very eager, curious, interested in everything I had to say,” Pioli told DAZN. “His attitude is fantastic; he is an exemplary professional and hard worker who will help the team to get stronger.”
In addition to Pulisic’s contribution, goals from Olivier Giroud and Rafael Leão secured Milan’s victory over Lecce, who played the entire second half with 10 men after Nikola Krstović was sent off.
Milan, currently in second place, narrowed the gap to Serie A leader Inter Milan to 11 points ahead of Inter’s upcoming match against Udinese on Monday. Meanwhile, Lecce remains positioned four points above the relegation zone despite the defeat.