Pulisic and Saelemaekers hail ‘incredible spirit’ and Milan sacrifices | OneFootball

Christian Pulisic and Alexis Saelemaekers hailed the ‘incredible sacrifices’ Milan made to beat Napoli when down to 10 men, and revealed a thank you gift for the American.

It was a fiery encounter at San Siro, the first really big test of the season for the Rossoneri.

Pulisic was inspirational, as he ran from his own half in the third minute to set up the Saelemaekers goal, then scored the second himself.

Napoli were allowed back in by the Pervis Estupinan red card and consequent Kevin De Bruyne penalty, but Milan held on for the 2-1 victory, thanks also to David Neres clipping the woodwork in stoppages.

Pulisic inspired Milan to victory

MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 28: Christian Pulisic of AC Milan scores a goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 28, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

“Incredible, the sacrifices we made, especially defending after the red card, it was just special,” Pulisic told DAZN Italia.

“The coach did really well to get the best out of every player here, we have a lot of quality in the squad and we can prove that on the field now.”

MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 28: Alexis Saelemaekers of AC Milan

celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 28, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Saelemaekers also tried to focus on the unity of the Milan squad, as they fought to beat the reigning Champions of Italy at San Siro when a man down.

“From the first day of training, we found that we were a united family, and we proved that to the end today. The players who came off the bench gave their all too, we are really happy,” Saelemaekers told DAZN Italia.

“I always try to give my best on the field, the fans see that, and they appreciate my efforts. The most important thing is the team spirit, we are a real family here. I will thank Christian for the assist by going golfing together!”

Check the Football Italia Player Ratings for Milan 2-1 Napoli

This result means that Napoli are now caught at the top of the Serie A table on 12 points by both Milan and Roma.

“The season is very long, we work hard all week to get results like this, so we must take it one game at a time and see where we end up.”