Pulisic’s Derby Heroics Cement New Milan Deal Until 2031
American star scores early in Milan’s 3-1 Derby win, explains why he’s staying for the long haul
Christian Pulisic sealed his place in Milan folklore on Tuesday, finding the net within four minutes of kickoff as the Rossoneri defeated city rivals Inter 3-1 in the latest Derby della Madonnina. The strike came just a day after the United States international signed a fresh contract that ties him to the San Siro until June 2031.
How the goal unfolded
Diego Moreira delivered a pinpoint cross from the right flank, allowing Pulisic to rise above the defence and head the ball into the far corner, putting Milan ahead. Six minutes later, Adrien Rabiot doubled the lead after a rehearsed corner routine that also involved Moreira. Inter pulled one back through Alessandro Bastoni’s header, but Milan restored a two‑goal cushion before the break when Moreira stepped up to take a free‑kick and curled it past the goalkeeper. The 3-1 scoreline held for the remainder of the match, handing Inter their first league defeat of the season and marking Milan’s fourth straight victory in the derby.
Why the new contract matters to Pulisic
In a post‑match interview with CBS Sports Golazo, the American admitted that the contract extension was not on his mind during the game, but he acknowledged the emotional weight of the decision. He said Milan had given him a fresh start after a difficult spell at Chelsea, offering the trust and confidence that allowed him to rebuild his career. "They restarted my career and helped me in so many ways – I feel I owe them a lot," he explained, adding that the new deal gives him a chance to repay the club and its supporters over the coming years.
A career reborn in Italy
Pulisic arrived at Milan in the summer of 2023, seeking regular playing time that had eluded him at Chelsea. The move proved transformative; he quickly became a key figure in the attack, capable of playing across the front line and delivering both goals and assists. The recent contract, which runs until 2031, reflects the club’s confidence in his continued impact during what should be the prime of his career.
Derby record adds to his value
With the latest goal, Pulisic has now scored four times against Inter, reinforcing his reputation as a player who thrives in high‑pressure encounters. The win also marked Milan’s sixth triumph in the last eight derbies, underlining the team’s recent dominance in the city rivalry.
Looking ahead
The extension secures Pulisic’s services for the next several seasons, giving both player and club a stable platform to chase domestic and European ambitions. As he puts it, the contract is more than a professional milestone – it is a personal promise to continue giving back to the fans who embraced him and to the club that revitalised his football journey.
- Contract: extended until June 2031
- Derby result: Milan 3–1 Inter
- Pulisic’s goal: header from Moreira’s cross, 4th minute
- Overall derby record: 4 goals against Inter, 4 consecutive wins
- Key quote: Milan gave him trust, confidence and a fresh start
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