As the 2025-26 pre-season unfurls its tactical experiments, all eyes turn to Christian Pulisic. The American international, long admired for his flair on the wing, recently debuted in a surprising new role for AC Milan: a central striker. This bold move by returning coach Massimiliano Allegri suggests more than just pre-season whimsy; it hints at a calculated strategic pivot for the Rossoneri`s campaign ahead.
The Pre-Season Proving Ground: A New Role Emerges
The stage was set in Singapore, where AC Milan faced Arsenal in their inaugural pre-season fixture. While the Rossoneri ultimately succumbed to a narrow 1-0 defeat at the hands of Bukayo Saka, the match offered a fascinating glimpse into Allegri`s early tactical considerations. The most notable revelation was Pulisic`s deployment upfront, partnering Rafael Leao in a 3-5-2 formation during the first half.
For a player accustomed to hugging the touchline, drifting inwards from the right, or occasionally operating behind a central figure, this was a significant departure. Pulisic, with his customary agility and dribbling prowess, found himself operating on the left side of the attack, a position where many of his 34 touches in the first 45 minutes originated. This was an intriguing blend, allowing him to gravitate towards his natural left-sided comfort while fulfilling a more advanced, central mandate.
Why the Shift? Allegri`s Strategic Hand
The genesis of this positional reshuffle is, predictably, rooted in the ever-dynamic transfer market. With both Luka Jovic and Tammy Abraham having departed after their contracts expired on June 30, AC Milan`s sporting director, Igli Tare, remains on the perennial quest for a definitive number nine. Young striker Lorenzo Colombo is expected to pursue a loan spell, and the anticipated return of Mexican forward Santiago Gimenez is still weeks away. In this temporary void, Allegri seized the opportunity to innovate.
The decision to pair two nominal wingers in a central attacking partnership speaks volumes about Allegri`s pragmatic approach. It`s a classic example of making do with existing talent while awaiting reinforcements, but with a twist of potential long-term benefit. This setup notably granted Rafael Leao increased freedom to roam across the attacking third, unburdened by strict defensive responsibilities. The Portuguese star, appearing comfortable in this liberated role, could potentially elevate his already formidable performances if he finds a true target man to complement his movements—or, perhaps, if Pulisic surprisingly blossoms into that very role.
Pulisic and Leao: A Dual Threat?
Despite not registering a shot in his 45-minute stint, Pulisic`s engagement suggested he could offer more from this advanced position. It`s crucial to remember that pre-season friendlies are less about immediate statistical output and more about testing hypotheses. This experimental role for Pulisic isn`t a pure striker position in the traditional sense; it`s a hybrid. It combines elements of a creative number 10, operating just behind a central forward, with the flexibility to drift wide to the left during both offensive and defensive phases.
Such tactical fluidity is a hallmark of modern football and could be particularly appealing to national team coaches grappling with their own attacking dilemmas. While it`s premature to declare this a permanent fixture, the fact that it`s “something that will stay in the mind of the Italian coach” speaks to its perceived viability.
“Leao put in an excellent performance, just like all the other players. I`m satisfied with him. When we lose, even in a friendly, I`m never completely happy, but now it`s important to prepare well for the rest of the season. And it should be noted that we were facing one of the strongest teams in Europe. For sixty minutes, we played on par with them.”
— Massimiliano Allegri, AC Milan Coach, on Milan TV
Beyond the Friendly: What Lies Ahead for AC Milan
For AC Milan, the 2025-26 season looms as a challenging, yet focused, campaign. Having missed out on European competitions in the previous season, their sole focus will be on domestic glory: the Serie A title and the Coppa Italia. Reclaiming a spot in the Champions League qualification berths is undeniably their paramount objective.
The curious post-match penalty shootout against Arsenal, which Milan won 6-5 despite the lack of a tie, provided an unexpected moment of heroism. Young Italian goalkeeper Lorenzo Torriani emerged as the unlikely saviour, denying Martin Odegaard, Jakub Kiwior, and Reiss Nelson from the spot. These seemingly minor pre-season narratives often forge character and camaraderie, crucial ingredients for a long season.
Milan`s tactical journey continues this Saturday as they prepare to face Liverpool. Each pre-season fixture serves as another brushstroke on Allegri`s canvas, as he meticulously crafts a squad capable of competing at the highest level. Whether Christian Pulisic’s new role morphs from a temporary solution into a permanent tactical weapon remains to be seen, but the early signs suggest a fascinating period of evolution for the American star and AC Milan alike. The eternal quest for the perfect fit in the final third continues, and Pulisic might just be the unexpected answer.
Lennox Bray