Ambrosini hails Pulisic-Gimenez partnership but sends warning to Leao | OneFootball

Massimo Ambrosini feels Santiago Gimenez deserves part of the credit for Christian Pulisic’s convincing performances this season, but warns Rafael Leao that he’ll need to ‘adapt’ to the new ‘spirit and attitude’ at Milan.

Massimiliano Allegri’s Milan sit third in the Serie A table, just two points behind the leading pair Napoli and Roma.

Pulisic missed a penalty in a 0-0 draw against Juventus before the break, but the USMNT captain remains the best scorer in the league with four goals. Pulisic has also been named the Serie A Player of the Month for September.

Ambrosini praises Pulisic and Gimenez

MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 23: Santiago Gimenez of AC Milan celebrates with teammates after scoring to give the side a 1-0 lead during the Coppa Italia Frecciarossa Round of 16 match between AC Milan and US Lecce at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Jonathan Moscrop/Getty Images)

“Pulisic moves across the final third and has a point of reference in Gimenez, who keeps defenders occupied,” Ambrosini told Gazzetta.

“The American has done so well so far, and it’s also Santi’s merit.”

Rafael Leao has returned from an injury, starting on the bench against Napoli and Juventus, but can the Portuguese star become Milan’s starting striker this season?

TURIN, ITALY – OCTOBER 05: Federico Gatti of Juventus FC tackles Rafael Leao of AC Milan during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and AC Milan at Allianz Stadium on October 5, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

“It’s the big question mark of this moment. The coach is right when he says Leao makes some moves as a centre-forward, but a centre-forward must also play with his back to the goal,” noted Ambrosini.

“Will Leao make it? And then there’s a matter regarding the chemistry with Pulisic because both love to move towards the left, and by doing so, they risk leaving the box empty.”

Ambrosini: Leao must ‘work hard and adapt’

Ambrosini refused to blame Leao for the two chances he missed against Juventus on Sunday: “I’ve seen worse errors,” said the former Italian midfielder who, at the same time, sent a warning to the Milan star.

“He has a great opportunity ahead,” Ambrosini concluded.

“Milan have drawn a line in terms of spirit and attitude, and Leao must adjust. You can’t discuss him technically, but he has to work hard and adapt. He must also take out that spirit of sacrifice, sporting rage and determination.”