AC Milan’s Christian Pulisic, a star each in Serie A and as captain of the USA Males’s Nationwide Crew (USMNT), has usually been known as “Captain America”. Whereas the moniker highlights his prominence and management, Pulisic has been hesitant to embrace it. Legendary striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, nevertheless, has publicly urged the 26-year-old winger to tackle the mantle wholeheartedly, citing his distinctive expertise and management potential as causes he ought to step up.
Since his arrival at Milan in the summertime of 2023, Pulisic has been a revelation. With 23 objectives and 17 assists in 70 appearances, he has shortly established himself as one of many Rossoneri’s most essential gamers. But, his low-key demeanor contrasts with the larger-than-life nickname he’s earned.
In an interview with The Athletic, he mentioned his reservations concerning the “Captain America” label, acknowledging the immense stress it brings. Having confronted scrutiny throughout his Chelsea tenure, the USMNT skipper has sought to maintain a grounded strategy to each his profession and public picture.
What did Ibrahimovic say?
Zlatan Ibrahimovic, by no means one to mince phrases, believes that Pulisic’s reluctance is misplaced. Talking as a part of Pulisic’s new docuseries PULISIC on Paramount+, the Swedish icon praised the winger’s talents however didn’t shrink back from critique. “He’s recognized for being Captain America, yeah? However he doesn’t prefer to be known as Captain America. He doesn’t possibly see himself like a superhero,” Zlatan remarked. “He’s taking part in low profile and together with his ft on the bottom, however you’re Captain America.”
Ibrahimovic continued in his trademark candid fashion: “I don’t give a s** what you say, you’re. If that’s extra stress on you, I don’t care. It’s his personal fault—for those who weren’t so good, we wouldn’t ask something from you”. The ex-Chelsea star, in response, shared a lighthearted response on Instagram, reposting the quote with laughing emojis, signaling that he took the Swede’s feedback in stride.
Burden of management
For Pulisic, the stress of being labeled a pacesetter isn’t new. Because the USMNT captain, he has shouldered the expectations of being the face of American soccer, notably throughout his time within the Premier League with Chelsea. Whereas he has overtly spoken concerning the challenges he confronted in England, his performances in Italy recommend he has discovered a rhythm and confidence that would propel him to even better heights.
Former Milan ahead and present govt Ibrahimovic’s feedback, although blunt, spotlight a vital level: management in soccer usually extends past particular person brilliance to embracing the duty of inspiring teammates and followers. Pulisic’s distinctive talent set—his dynamic dribbling, goal-scoring skill, and tactical versatility—locations him among the many elite gamers able to making such an impression.
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