Christian Pulisic's Unusual Performance: Analyzing His Passing Data for AC Milan
**Christian Pulisic's Unusual Performance: Analyzing His Passing Data for AC Milan**
**Introduction**
Christian Pulisic's move to AC Milan in 2022-23 was anticipated with excitement, given his stellar performance at Chelsea. However, his initial impact at Milan has raised eyebrows, particularly regarding his passing ability. This article delves into Pulisic's passing metrics, exploring why his performance might not meet the high expectations set by his reputation.
**Pulisic's Passing Metrics**
Pulisic's passing has been a focal point of discussion since his arrival in Milan. At Chelsea, he was known for his precise passing and ability to control games, completing 92% of his passes with a high accuracy rate. In contrast, at Milan, his passing success dropped to 85%, and his passing accuracy dipped slightly to 88.3%. This noticeable change can be attributed to his evolving role under manager Erik ten Hag, who has shifted Pulisic from a free-roaming attacking midfielder to a more defensive box-to-box midfielder.
**Positional Shift and Impact**
Pulisic's role at Milan has changed significantly,Saudi Pro League Focus leading to a reduction in his passing contributions. As a box-to-box midfielder, he is now tasked with breaking up opposition play and contributing to attacks from a more defensive position. This shift has resulted in fewer passes completed, particularly in the middle and final thirds of the field, where he once excelled. However, his passing accuracy in the final third remains high at 91%, indicating that he can still deliver when given the opportunity to attack.
**Conclusion**
While Pulisic's passing metrics may not match his previous standards, his adaptability and work rate have been crucial for Milan. His leadership on the pitch and ability to contribute to goal contributions, whether through assists or goals, have been significant factors in his performance. Pulisic's story at Milan highlights the complexities of football performance, where metrics like passing success rate don't tell the full story. His impact extends beyond numbers, showcasing the importance of versatility and adaptability in modern football.