FOOTBALL
Posted on February 18, 2026 11:00 pm | Updated on February 18, 2026 6:49 pm
Christian Pulisic is being compared to current left wingers at Chelsea ahead of a possible Premier League return. A former Blue is thriving abroad and his old club is still searching for balance on the same wing. With transfer talk heating up, the comparison is impossible to ignore.
Milan’s Massive Gain In Christian Pulisic
Chelsea sold Pulisic to AC Milan in 2023 for £20m. That is a fee that now looks modest. At the time, it felt like a clean break. Injuries had disrupted his rhythm in London, and the club wanted a new player. Meanwhile, Milan saw an opportunity. Two seasons later, that move has paid off.
Since arriving in Italy, Pulisic has regained sharpness and belief. He has not just contributed, he has led from the front. As per reports, the Rossoneri could demand as much as €80m for him this summer. In addition, plenty of English sides are already monitoring the situation. That number alone tells you how far his market value has risen.
This season, he has scored 10 goals across all competitions. Last year he hit 17 and the season before that, 15. Those are not flashes, that is consistency. He has featured as a striker at times in Italy. But, most of his best work still comes from the wing, especially the left.
Now, fans are comparing his stats to that of Chelsea’s current options. Alejandro Garnacho has six goals despite playing more minutes. Jamie Gittens has scored once, a stunning strike in the Carabao Cup. Jadon Sancho arrived with promise but has already moved on. For all the transfer activity, the left wing remains unsettled.
Wide players in the Premier League are judged on goals and decisive moments. Pulisic is delivering them for Milan at the moment. But, The Blues’ young wingers are still searching for that edge.
Garnacho And Gittens Struggling To Step Up
No one doubts Garnacho’s flair. At 21, he carries confidence and intent to take risks. On his day, he can stretch defences and create chaos. But, his form has been mixed since his arrival. That inconsistency is likely hurting Chelsea’s rhythm on the left.
Meanwhile, Gittens is in a similar place. There is raw speed and ambition in his game, but injuries have stalled his momentum. When fit, he looks fearless and confident. When sidelined, the team needs to rely on other options again. On the other hand, Estevao Willian and Pedro Neto have both been used on the left at times as well. Though each prefers playing on the opposite side.
The west London club is building for the future. Garnacho and Gittens may well surpass Pulisic one day. At 21, time is on their side, but potential is not the same as outcome.
Pulisic, now 27, is in his prime years. He understands spaces, timing, and when to attack the box. His decision making has matured with time. Those small details separate promising talent from reliable starters.
Would Pulisic Start At Chelsea Today?
Based on the current form, the USA international will surely make the Blues’ starting eleven. The English side have struggled to lock down the left wing. Managers want certainty in that position, someone who can deliver goals and track back with discipline. Pulisic has shown both traits in Italy. He is sharper in transition and more composed in front of goal as well.
The idea of him returning to the Premier League is interesting. Though facing Chelsea in different colours would carry emotion. It would also raise uncomfortable questions too.
However, football rarely waits for anyone. Chelsea have chosen a different path as they are investing in youth and long term growth. That said, their strategy could pay off in the future.
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