Brad Friedel Says AC Milan Star Christian Pulisic Shouldn’t Be Considering MLS Move
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Brad Friedel Says AC Milan Star Christian Pulisic Shouldn’t Be Considering MLS Move

The American international has been given some stern advice from his compatriot.

Ben Horlock Ben Horlock Updated on 26 January 2026

Christian Pulisic should not be contemplating moving to MLS, according to USMNT legend and former Premier League star Brad Friedel. 

Much has been made of Pulisic’s future after his heroics for AC Milan in recent seasons. ‘Captain America‘ has been the Rossoneri’s standout performer since joining from Chelsea in 2023.

The Milan maestro is widely considered as one of Serie A’s greatest performers. So much so that Friedel insists he should continue enhancing his growing reputation and global status in Europe.

Brad Friedel On Christian Pulisic

Although Christian Pulisic’s contract talks won’t resume until the Spring, Brad Friedel believes the AC Milan winger should stay put for now. However, he admitted he would like him in MLS one day.

In the future, yes. It’s like this – just from a U.S. fan standpoint, I want as many of the best players for the national team playing at the highest level of competition they can, because that will make sure that the national team competes stronger against the world’s elite,” Friedel told GOAL.

Everyone does definitely not have to play in Europe, there can be MLS players, for sure. But to have all the top guys in MLS, where mentally it is a far easier league, your standards are allowed to drop, there is no promotion or relegation, there is very little looking over your shoulder.”

If somebody came in like your Weston McKennie and your Christian Pulisic, they would have so much power at an MLS club, I would worry that they wouldn’t be focused on just getting better,” the former goalkeeper added.

Will Christian Pulisic Stay At AC Milan?

Earlier this month, Gio Reyna opened up on Christian Pulisic’s future. Pulisic is interesting Manchester United and Reyna suggested that his international teammate will make the correct call.

“I’m sure he’ll make the best decision for himself. It’s none of my business. I was not aware of this interest but I am convinced that he will do the right thing.

“At Milan, however, he is flying. I just hope he continues to play well and arrive in the best condition for the World Cup because we will need him.”

After goalkeeper Mike Maignan agreed new terms, the general feeling surrounding Pulisic is a lot more positive. Although the optimism isn’t quite fully shared by Brad Friedel.

The ex Blackburn, Liverpool and Tottenham ace suggested that AC Milan must “get its act together” or the likes of United and other European heavyweights will swoop.

Ben Horlock

Ben Horlock

Ben has a long standing devotion to Italian soccer and in particular, Serie A. Ben grew up watching legendary presenter James Richardson deliver the latest news and views with the daily papers and breakfast in hand. Not only does Ben follow Italy's top soccer division, he is an avid follower of all the major European leagues. Ben is an expert on all things Serie A and has produced a number of features and news articles for FootItalia as well as UK-based outlets such as HITC, 90min, GiveMeSport and Betfair. In the US, Ben has been published on ESPN and Sports Illustrated.

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