da luck： Christian Pulisic is off to a dream start to life at Milan, making it clear that he's ready and able to put his Chelsea frustrations behind him.
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Pulisic scores stunning goalHelps set up former Chelsea teammate GiroudSpectacular start to life in Milan
The young American scored a stunning goal in the Milan victory, which saw the Serie A giants take down Bologna 2-0 in Pulisic's debut.
Pulisic started on the right wing, joining Olivier Giroud and Rafael Leao in attack, and contributed to two goals within the first 21 minutes. He helped set up one, which ended in a Giroud finish, before scoring one of his own in the 21st minute to ensure his first match with the club would be a memorable one.
The 24-year-old U.S. men's national team star joined Milan from Chelsea this summer after several frustrating seasons in London.
GettyWHAT HAPPENED?
Pulisic helped set up the opening goal, which came via Olivier Giroud in the 11th minute. The American winger played the ball to Tijjani Reijnders, who warned the assist for teeing up the Frenchman.
The American wasn't content with just the hockey assist, though, as Pulisic then scored a stunner of his own 10 minutes later. The goal came via a quick one-two with Giroud, who laid the ball off for Pulisic to strike from outside the box. Pulisic, in turn, produced a spectacular finish, finding the back of the net to mark his debut with a fantastic finish.
Pulisic lasted 73 minutes before replaced by fellow new signing Samuel Chukwueze with the game comfortably in hand.
AdvertisementGettyTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Pulisic started on the right-hand side of the Milan attack, offering a look into Stefano Pioli's plans for him this season.
With Leao entrenched on the left, it was expected that Pulisic would start on the right or perhaps even centrally, replacing Brahim Diaz. If Pulisic were to start centrally, it would open up a spot for Chukwueze, who instead was left on the bench in this one.
Pulisic's performance in this one, though, will certainly convince Pioli that there's no need for change as he was dominant on the right-hand side. He routinely terrorized Bologna's defense, particularly in the first half, as he could have had an assist or two on the day given the chances he created.
(C)Getty imagesUSMNT IMPACT
All of those in U. S. Soccer's Chicago office will have watched on with a huge smile on their face. The USMNT hasn't seen this Pulisic on the club level for some time.
For the past several years, Pulisic has used his time to rebuild his confidence and, generally, he's done exactly that. No matter what was going on at Chelsea, the American routinely shined when called upon for international duty as he was always able to separate his club form from his international commitments.
However, the USMNT can now begin to wonder how much Pulisic could be when and if he arrives to camp in good form. That was the aim of this move to Milan, to build confidence. The best way to do so? Scoring goals, and Pulisic already has one in his back pocket.
GettyGOAL'S GRADE
Christian Pulisic (8/10):
About as good of a debut as you can get. Scored a fantastic goal and was key to how Milan played. Pulisic seemingly fits right in, which is great news after he spent so long on the outside looking in at Chelsea.
Yunus Musah (N/A):
Debut was delayed as he served a suspension dating back to his time at Valencia. That could be a blessing in disguise, though, as it gives him a bit more time to adjust to his new club after arriving late in the summer.