With Rubén Amorim now at the helm of AC Milan, the Rossoneri are on the verge of a profound tactical transformation. The Portuguese manager, already putting his stamp on Milanello from the very first week, is clearly outlining his vision: a fluid and dynamic 3-4-3, with players capable of adapting to multiple roles across the attacking line.
Pulisic on the Left: Amorim’s Surprise Move
One of the most intriguing indications from Amorim’s early statements concerns Christian Pulisic. The American attacker, typically deployed on the right side of the pitch, could be repositioned to the left of the attacking trio. The logic is tactically sound: by starting from the left, the American would have the freedom to cut inside onto his stronger right foot to shoot or deliver assists — a solution that plays directly to his natural strengths in terms of movement and finishing.
It is a choice reminiscent of the great inverted wingers of modern football, and one that could make Pulisic even more unpredictable and dangerous for opposing defences. The former Chelsea man has proven over recent seasons to be one of the most consistent and decisive players in Italian football, and Amorim appears intent on unlocking even more from him.
It is worth noting that Pulisic recently suffered an injury at the World Cup — a double blow to ankle and knee in a single action — and his recovery and physical condition will be closely monitored in the weeks ahead.
Saelemaekers: From Right to Left, a Tactical Puzzle
Pulisic’s move to the left inevitably opens up new scenarios for Alexis Saelemaekers. The Belgian, historically a right-sided player, may be asked to cover the opposite flank, or his role could be redefined differently within Amorim’s system. This is no trivial adjustment: Saelemaekers has typically operated as a right-footed right winger, and deploying him on the left would require a meaningful shift in his approach.
These are questions that Milanello’s work will answer during pre-season, with the summer friendlies serving precisely to bed in positions and identify which solutions work best.
Chukwueze and Musa: A Chance in the Amorim Project
One of the most significant squad-related developments concerns two players many had written off as departures: Samuel Chukwueze and Musa. The new manager has confirmed that both will remain in the group for pre-season, with a genuine opportunity to earn a place in the final squad.
The reasoning is structural: Milan are targeting a squad of 25 outfield players, compared to the approximately 19 of the previous campaign. With more competitions to navigate and football becoming ever more intense and demanding, squad depth becomes a decisive factor.
Chukwueze, returning from a difficult spell at Atalanta where he failed to nail down a regular starting berth, could carve out a role in the attacking rotation. Musa, meanwhile, comes back from a mixed season at Fulham and could also be assessed in a midfield position. Both will have the summer friendlies to convince Amorim of their worth — merit will be the only criterion.
A Milan Renewed, with a Clear Identity
Amorim’s tactical choices sketch out an ambitious, direct and attack-minded Milan. The flexibility of the 3-4-3 allows for continuous variations — from the back three to the front three, from box-to-box midfielders to wide attackers — and demands intelligent players capable of reading multiple roles. This is precisely the kind of football the Rossoneri faithful have been waiting for: intense, proactive and spectacular.
