Pulisic Returns with Assist as Milan Fight Back Against Lazio

Christian Pulisic finally made his long-awaited return to competitive action on Saturday, coming off the bench at half-time in AC Milan's 2-2 draw at Lazio. The American had been sidelined since suffering an injury in the final match of the 2026 World Cup, which disrupted his pre-season. His introduction, along with new signing Diego Moreira, sparked a remarkable turnaround.

Trailing 2-0 after goals from Matteo Cancellieri and Tijjani Noslin, Milan looked down and out. But within three minutes of the restart, Moreira struck twice to level the score, with Pulisic providing the assist for the first. The Belgian winger, a summer arrival from Strasbourg for around $60 million, stole the headlines, but Pulisic's contribution was equally vital.

After the match, manager Ruben Amorim praised Pulisic's attitude, revealing that the forward was eager to play despite his lack of minutes. "Pulisic is angry because he has zero minutes, and I love that," Amorim said. "I won't leave out someone who is doing well just to put a 'name' in." The coach emphasized a patient approach to rebuild Pulisic's fitness.

Milan now turn their attention to Thursday's European debut against Benfica at San Siro, followed by a Serie A clash with Lecce on Sunday. Pulisic is expected to feature more prominently, but Amorim plans to manage his workload carefully, aiming to have him fully fit after the international break for a grueling stretch of three matches per week.