Pulisic Ready to Start

After Missing the November International Window, Winger to Feature Against Inter

Christian Pulisic returns to action at the perfect moment as AC Milan prepares for Sunday's crucial Derby della Madonnina against Inter at the San Siro. The American star, who missed the USMNT's recent November matches due to a low-grade hamstring tear suffered during October's international window, made his comeback with a 20-minute cameo against Parma on November 8 and appears ready to influence one of football's most storied rivalries.

The timing couldn't be better for Milan. Pulisic has emerged as a derby specialist, transforming from a player who struggled to impact his first four Milan derbies into one of the fixture's most decisive performers. Last September, he produced a memorable solo goal, weaving through Inter's defense from 30 yards to spark a crucial 2-1 victory. He followed that with another vital goal in January's Supercoppa Italiana final and delivered an outstanding performance in April's 3-0 triumph.

Manager Massimiliano Allegri will deploy Pulisic alongside Rafael Leao for the first time in nearly 100 days, since August's match against Bari. The partnership offers Milan complementary threats: Leao provides explosive pace and unpredictable dribbling, while Pulisic operates between the lines with tactical intelligence and quick decision-making, capable of dismantling Inter's defensive structure.

Milan reportedly kept Pulisic from joining the USMNT during the November window specifically to ensure his fitness for this derby. Having recorded six goal contributions in eight appearances before his injury, the 27-year-old was in sharp form and brings his well-documented ability to step up in big matches.

The stakes are substantial. Inter currently tops Serie A with 24 points, while Milan sits just two points behind with 22. In a tightly contested title race where both teams have been difficult to beat, individual brilliance often decides derby outcomes. With Pulisic's proven track record in this fixture and his fresh legs following rest, he could once again provide the spark that tilts Sunday's clash.