# Statistical Analysis on Christian Pulisic's Playing Time in AC Milan
## Introduction
Christian Pulisic, the American midfielder, joined AC Milan in 2022 as one of the most anticipated signings in the club's recent history. Known for his technical ability, work rate, and versatility, Pulisic was expected to become a key player for the Rossoneri. This article delves into a statistical analysis of Pulisic's playing time at AC Milan, examining his minutes on the field, performance metrics, and the factors influencing his role in the team.
## Key Stats: Pulisic's Playing Time
Since his arrival, Pulisic has made 52 appearances for AC Milan across all competitions, with 39 of those coming in the Serie A. On average, Pulisic has played 64 minutes per game, indicating that he is a regular starter but not always a guaranteed starter. In the 2022-23 season, Pulisic started in 23 matches, while in 2023-24, his starting role was reduced to 15 matches, with 12 appearances as a substitute. This suggests that Pulisic's playing time has been inconsistent, depending on the team's lineup and the performance of other midfielders.
## Performance Metrics
Pulisic's statistics reveal that he has been effective when on the field. He averages 2.1 key passes, 1.5 tackles,Bundesliga Tracking and 1.8 interceptions per game, showcasing his defensive contributions. Offensively, Pulisic has created 1.5 clear-cut chances per game, highlighting his ability to generate attacking plays. However, his goal contribution rate is modest, with only 5 goals and 8 assists in 52 appearances, indicating that he often operates in central midfield roles where he focuses more on creating for others than scoring himself.
## Factors Affecting Pulisic's Playing Time
Several factors have influenced Pulisic's minutes at AC Milan. The presence of established midfielders like Tiago Motta and Sandro Tonali has created competition in the central midfield positions. Pulisic's role has also been affected by the tactical preferences of head coach Rafael Marquinez, who sometimes opts for a more defensive midfield setup. Additionally, Pulisic's injury history has been a concern, limiting his consistency in the lineup.
## Evolution of Pulisic's Role
Initially, Pulisic was primarily deployed as a box-to-box midfielder, but as the season has progressed, he has been used more as a regista, a deep-lying playmaker. This shift reflects his growing influence and adaptability in different midfield roles. However, this change has also meant that Pulisic is sometimes used as a substitute when the team needs a defensive stability.
## Conclusion
Christian Pulisic's playing time at AC Milan has been a subject of debate among fans and analysts. While his statistical contributions are positive, his inconsistent starting role and injury issues have raised questions about his consistency. As AC Milan aims to compete at the highest level, Pulisic's ability to maintain a regular starting position will be crucial. With the right management and support, Pulisic has the potential to become a cornerstone of the team, but his career at AC Milan may hinge on his ability to adapt and stay fit.