In Focus: Christian Pul-ing up trees once again after Milan switch

Christian Pulisic is a man revitalised since his summer move from Chelsea to AC Milan.

The United States star, 24, has bagged two goals in his first three Serie A games, which already betters his Premier League tally for the whole of last season.

As he looks to inspire the Rossoneri to victory in his first Milan derby on Saturday, we turn the spotlight on the in-form forward.

Love at first sight

Having become something of a forgotten man in West London, Pulisic is delighted to be a key part of Stefano Pioli's team.

He has started all three of Milan's games so far, helping his new side take maximum points as they sit behind tomorrow's opponents on goal difference alone.

It took Pulisic just 21 minutes to get on the scoresheet on his debut against Bologna, superbly rifling home after being teed up by former Chelsea team-mate Olivier Giroud.

He was at it again against Torino, tapping in the first of a 4-1 romp before the impressive win at Roma.

On his new surroundings, Pulisic told Gazzetta dello Sport: "It was love at first sight for me here.

"Especially when I saw the Milan fans. I've never experienced such passion."

Blues brothers

Giroud is the perfect example of a player who has enjoyed a rebirth since swapping Chelsea for Milan.

At 36, the Frenchman still looks at the top of his game — with his four goals so far this season taking his tally since moving to Italy in 2021 to 36 in 88 appearances.

Fikayo Tomori can tell a similar tale and the ex-Blues duo's delight since moving to Milan must have been a motivating factor for Pulisic — and Ruben Loftus-Cheek — deciding to follow suit.

Finding consistency

While it is difficult to label Pulisic's time at Chelsea a success, the Pennsylvania-born ace was not without his spurts of excellent form — even if consistency proved elusive.

That will be the challenge for Pulisic at Milan as he looks to finally deliver on what has always looked a hugely promising career.

His role on the right of a 4-2-3-1 formation should help him do that, with the physical prowess of Giroud allowing him and fellow attacker Rafael Leao to cause problems.

Derby debut

A confident Pulisic will be relishing the chance to continue his fine start against Inter Milan.

Both clubs are desperate to outline their title credentials after failing to offer a decent challenge to runaway champions Napoli last term.

On who of the two Milan teams is best placed to do so, Pulisic added: "A derby is the perfect occasion to find out.

"They are a strong team and it's difficult to play against them, as the Champions League final also showed. 

"I dream of scoring goals or giving an assist, which is always nice. I want to play the derby and the Champions League, I can't wait. I'm hyper-competitive in everything."

Pulisic looks to be happy and motivated once again and that could spell bad news for the Nerazzurri when the two foes renew acquaintances.