Christian Pulisic moved to the German Bundesliga at age sixteen, securing a place in the Borussia Dortmund youth academy through his dual citizenship in the United States and Croatia. His professional ascent began in January 2016, quickly establishing him as a prominent figure in North American football and eventually leading to a $73 million transfer to Chelsea.
Early Development and Relocation
Born in Hershey, Pennsylvania, in 1998, Pulisic is the son of Kelley and Mark Pulisic, both collegiate soccer players. During his youth, he lived briefly in Tackley, Oxfordshire, while his mother participated in the Fulbright Program, where he played for Brackley Town. Upon returning to the United States, he competed for the PA Classics in the U.S. Soccer Development Academy before moving to Germany to pursue a professional career.
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After joining Borussia Dortmund in 2015, Pulisic progressed through the club's U17 and U19 squads. He debuted for the senior team in January 2016 at age seventeen. By April of that year, he became the youngest non-German player to score in the Bundesliga. His tenure at the club included a DFB-Pokal victory and a nomination as runner-up for the 2018 Kopa Trophy.
Premier League and Serie A Career
In January 2019, Pulisic signed with the Premier League club Chelsea for $73 million, making him the most expensive North American player of all time. During his time in London, he won the 2020–21 UEFA Champions League, the 2021 UEFA Super Cup, and the 2021 FIFA Club World Cup. He transferred to AC Milan in June 2023 and secured the 2024–25 Supercoppa Italiana.
International Contribution
Pulisic made his senior national team debut for the United States in March 2016. He eventually became the youngest player to captain the American senior side at age twenty. His international accolades include three CONCACAF Nations League titles and the 2023 tournament best player award. He holds the record for four U.S. Player of the Year awards, tied with Landon Donovan.
Fast facts
- Born: 1998, Hershey, Pennsylvania
- Citizenship: United States and Croatia
- Professional Debut: 2016
- Primary Positions: Winger, attacking midfielder, forward
- Former Club: Borussia Dortmund
- Current Club: AC Milan
- Major Trophy: 2020–21 UEFA Champions League
- Language Skills: American English and Spanish
Questions readers ask
What is Christian Pulisic's transfer record?
He moved to Chelsea in January 2019 for $73 million, the highest fee for a North American player.
How many times has he been named U.S. Player of the Year?
He has won the award four times, currently sharing the record with Landon Donovan.
Achievements
- Worked as association football player
