GdS: Cardinale wants Pulisic to be 'symbol of the new era' at Milan despite 8m demands

Christian Pulisic has requested a significant pay increase to remain at AC Milan, while Gerry Cardinale plans to speak with him about his future. The 2026 season has been difficult, with no goals and a Champions League opportunity slipping away. Pulisic has felt sidelined in recent weeks and has indicated he does not want to extend his contract, which expires in summer 2027, leaving renewal talks frozen. Cardinale wants Pulisic to represent the new era and believes his dedication and sense of belonging matter beyond performances. The World Cup on home soil could restore his confidence. A potential coaching change, including evaluation of Mauricio Pochettino, may further shape his role, with negotiations expected to restart in summer and require financial commitment.

"Christian Pulisic has asked for a big pay rise to remain at AC Milan, with Gerry Cardinale hoping to speak to him about his future. La Gazzetta dello Sport (seen below) recall that 2026 was the saddest year of Pulisic's Milan career so far, with no goals and the Champions League goal slipping away at the end of the season. However, Pulisic has the opportunity for a sensational comeback."

"He will be the symbol of the United States national team at the World Cup on home soil. Pulisic's side will be the figure at the front and centre, whereas in the past few weeks at Milan he felt almost uncomfortable, sidelined. By nature, he's not an extrovert, but in his reserved nature he had made it clear to the club that he did not want to extend his deal."

"It's no coincidence that negotiations for a renewal of his contract - which expires in the summer of 2027 - are frozen for now. However, everything can change again. Cardinale remains convinced he wants Pulisic to be the symbol of the new era. Gerry saw in him a sense of belonging and a dedication to the team that transcended performances on the pitch."

"Meanwhile, Mauricio Pochettino is being evaluated as the man to replace Massimiliano Allegri. His relationship with Pulisic is good, despite having stripped him of the captain's armband (for now) as Pochettino has defended him numerous times from criticism. Whoever the next coach is will inevitably recognise Pulisic's quality and talent. At 27 he's a player at the height of his professional maturity."

Read at SempreMilan