Ahead of Milan’s recent clash with Bologna, fans eagerly anticipated the starting lineup, expecting to see Christian Pulisic from the first whistle. However, when the team sheet was revealed, Pulisic’s absence from the starting XI sparked widespread discussion and concern. The American winger, one of Milan’s most influential players this season, was instead left on the bench until the 61st minute, as the Rossoneri suffered a disappointing 2-1 defeat.
Manager Sergio Conceicao has now provided an explanation for the decision, while also addressing growing accusations that he has a preference for Joao Felix. Speaking ahead of Milan’s upcoming Serie A clash with Lazio, Conceicao made it clear that his decision to bench Pulisic in the mid-week was not one of preference, but necessity. According to the Portuguese tactician, the club’s medical team intervened just before kickoff, preventing him from selecting the U.S. international in the starting XI.
“Pulisic is different. On the day of the match against Bologna, the doctor told me he couldn’t start the match,” Conceicao revealed. “At that moment, I had to find a solution, I had to move Yunus Musah and put Joao Felix on who shouldn’t have played from the start.”
This revelation contradicts theories that Pulisic was benched due to tactical preference or a perceived drop in form. Instead, he has been managing a minor physical issue for over a month, forcing the coaching staff to handle his minutes carefully.
“He [Pulisic] has had a small physical problem for a month and we have to manage it. You can see it in his physical freshness,” the manager added.
What did Conceicao say about accusations of Joao Felix favoritism?
In addition to clarifying Pulisic’s absence, Conceicao also responded to claims that he has been prioritizing Joao Felix over other attacking options. Some fans had suggested that the Portuguese forward was receiving undeserved preference, especially given his inconsistent performances since arriving on loan from Chelsea.
Conceicao refuted these claims, asserting that the Portuguese forward only started against Bologna due to Pulisic’s last-minute withdrawal. However, he did acknowledge areas where the forward must improve. “Felix is very good between the lines. However, in my opinion, sometimes he moves to areas where he’s not needed with the ball: we need a second striker.”
“He has to be more decisive. He cannot be as far from the goal as he is now. He has to make the difference in the last thirty meters. We are working on this with him as well as with other players.”
Will Pulisic start against Lazio?
Milan fans will be relieved to hear that Pulisic’s condition is not deemed serious. However, his status for the crucial encounter against Lazio remains uncertain. Sky Italia suggests that the winger is likely to start on Sunday at San Siro, as the Rossoneri look to bounce back from consecutive defeats and maintain their push for a top-four finish.
With 12 goals and nine assists in all competitions, the 26-year-old has been instrumental in the Red and Blacks’ attack, and his presence will be vital in breaking down the Rome-based side that is just six points ahead in the table.
