Former U.S. international Alexi Lalas hailed Christian Pulisic after the Milan star’s match-winning brace against Udinese. The USMNT captain struck twice and played a role in a third as the Rossoneri cruised to a 3-0 away win, strengthening their early Serie A title push. The praise follows a summer in which the two publicly clashed over Pulisic’s Gold Cup absence.
Getty Images Sport'Arguably the best player for AC Milan'
The former USMNT defender stated that Pulisic is currently an elite player in Serie A and Milan's best player, highlighting the American's importance to the Rossoneri's tactical setup.
"I think you are looking at it certainly right now, and if you need any more proof, this game is it, that he is an elite player in Serie A. He is, I think arguably the best player for AC Milan," Lalas said on his State of the Union podcast.
Lalas expressed particular admiration for the comprehensive nature of Pulisic's contribution in the win.
“This was a phenomenal game,” Lalas explained. “I think something that he will remember and Pulisic fans, fans of the US national team and AC Milan fans can appreciate, and I think we'll remember for a long time. Everything he touched seemed to turn to gold.
“So this was everything that Christian Pulisic is encapsulated into one game. And rightfully he is receiving, you know, the flowers that a performance like that and combined with I think a consistency now of quality and elite performances that was attributed to him.”
AdvertisementGetty Images SportChange of tone for the summer
Lalas’ latest remarks mark a shift from the U.S. icon, who spent much of the summer criticizing Pulisic for skipping the Gold Cup and bristling at the star’s reaction to that scrutiny.
“The bigger problem for Christian Pulisic not to be here this summer is that you got to read the room, dude,” Lalas said. “I would think if this really means something to you, that you would move heaven and earth to be there to try to set this right. Now, does it mean that it’s all going to go great? No, but at least you are there in the trenches in the most important moment before this World Cup helping this team.”
Pulisic later addressed the criticism directly in his documentary series.
“I think everyone has, you know, had their opinion on me and, in my opinion, just disrespected me in a lot of ways, and just completely forgotten about what I’ve done for this national team for 10 years. It sucks,” he said. “If you went and you read the media, you probably think this was the end of the world. But in my head, I’m going back, and I’m right back into it with my club. I’ve got other things I’m focusing on, and I want to win – I want to win in everything that I do.”
GettyLalas discusses Pulisic's place among all-time American greats
Lalas shifted the conversation toward Pulisic’s historical standing among American players, weighing where the Milan star belongs on his personal Mount Rushmore of U.S. soccer legends. The FOX analyst acknowledged there are plenty of arguments for Pulisic to already be considered the greatest American ever, citing his success at multiple top European clubs.
“I think that Christian Pulisic is absolutely heading in the direction of being the best male American soccer player in history for what he has done,” Lalas said. “The Rushmore thing is interesting because I think it certainly relates to what you have done, but I also think it relates to the impact that you have – the lasting impact that you have. The historical aspects of what you do and the fundamental change that you bring…When you’re talking about a player, you know, what has Christian Pulisic done? I think you can make plenty of arguments.”
Looking ahead to next summer’s World Cup on home soil, Lalas suggested international success could cement Pulisic’s legacy beyond any remaining doubts.
“Again, while he has scored in the World Cup and while he has played in the World Cup, owning a World Cup – which is on offer next summer for him and this national team – I think that would shut up any people out there that are arguing against that."
Lalas also believes the only reason why Pulisic isn't bigger stateside yet is due to the fact that he's had his biggest successes in Europe. He hopes his star will continue to grow bigger in America, even if that means eventually coming to play in MLS one day.
“I will be interested when, in totality, we look at Christian Pulisic’s career, what he ends up doing. If maybe it comes back to MLS or does something back in the United States other than just making an incredible impact from afar – and if that maybe changes some people’s minds.”
Road ahead for Milan
Pulisic had another brilliant performance for AC Milan on Tuesday, coming off the bench to score in the club's 3-0 win over Lecce. His goal tally is now five goals in six games overall, and he'll be looking to bring his strong form into an early-season test against Napoli on Sept. 28.
