Pulisic reveals reason for taking Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s AC Milan number

Pulisic reveals reason for taking Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s AC Milan number

Ayoola Kelechi 22:44 - 13.07.2023

American winger Christian Pulisic has revealed his excitement at joining Italian giants AC Milan from Chelsea

Ex-Chelsea star Christian Pulisic, who just completed a move to AC Milan, has opened up about his excitement about completing his move from the Blues to Milan.

Pulisic unveiled as AC Milan signing

Pulisic had struggled to make his mark at Chelsea since his €64 million move from Borussia Dortmund in 2019, despite helping the Blues to the UEFA Champions League in 2021.

The American winger was only able to start eight Premier League matches in the 2022/23 campaign for Chelsea as he struggled with injuries, a loss of form, and Chelsea’s investment in new wingers for the team.

Christian Pulisic played for four seasons at Chelsea
Christian Pulisic played for four seasons at Chelsea

After losing importance with the Chelsea side, Pulisic decided to move to Italy to restart his career at AC Milan, and he has noted his excitement at making the switch.

Pulisic looking to emulate Milan legends

At his unveiling, Pulisic noted that he was keen to join Milan, as they are one of the biggest teams in the world.

He said, “When you have interest from a club like Milan, immediately you have to think about it and want to go to a club with so much history.

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“I spoke to Pioli and really felt like they wanted me. When they say this is how we want you to play, it’s something that makes you feel good, and it’s a big reason why I also wanted to come here.”

The American winger also picked up the number 11 jersey last worn by Milan icon Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who retired at the end of last season, but explained that he was not thinking of filling the big Swede’s boots.

AC Milan icon Zlatan Ibrahimovic
AC Milan icon Zlatan Ibrahimovic

“I’m not trying to fill his [Ibrahimovic's] shoes, he’s a legend, but it was a fresh beginning and a number that I liked,” Pulisic said, continuing, “There are so many big names you can go through, but I am a bit younger, so watched the likes of Kaka and Ibrahimovic.”

The American national team captain will be hoping to emulate former Chelsea defender Fikayo Tomori, who left London for Milan and gained a reputation as one of the most important players at the club.

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