Bologna vs Milan: Key Updates and Pulisic’s Absence

AC Milan faces a crucial match against Bologna on Tuesday, February 3rd, but will be without their leading scorer, Christian Pulisic. The American star has been ruled out of the game due to bursitis, an inflammation affecting the fluid-filled sacs near his hip joint. This injury casts a shadow over Milan’s ambitions as they chase league leaders Inter Milan.

Pulisic’s Injury History and Recent Concerns

While the injury doesn’t appear to be severe, it continues a pattern of minor setbacks for Pulisic. Coach Max Allegri had expressed hope for Pulisic’s availability, stating in a pre-game press conference on Monday, February 2nd, that he would travel if his condition improved. Unfortunately, recovery wasn’t swift enough.

Pulisic previously suffered a hamstring tear while representing the U.S. Men’s National Team in October. His return was marked by a spectacular winning goal against Inter on November 23rd, a moment of brilliance for the Rossoneri. However, a subsequent hamstring issue forced him to miss the match against Lazio in December. Allegri has acknowledged that Pulisic’s hamstring has been “bothering him from time to time” throughout January, leading to careful management of his playing time.

Impact on AC Milan’s Strategy

Despite the injury concerns, Pulisic remains Milan’s top goalscorer with 10 goals across all competitions. However, he is yet to register a goal or assist in 2026. Allegri has been strategically rotating Pulisic, limiting his starts to three of the last six league matches, likely to prevent further aggravation of his hamstring. This cautious approach highlights the importance of Pulisic to Milan’s overall success.

Title Race Implications: A Must-Win for Milan

The match against Bologna is pivotal for Milan’s Serie A title aspirations. Currently sitting in second place, they trail Inter Milan by eight points, albeit with a game in hand. A loss or even a draw would significantly widen the gap and hand a considerable advantage to their city rivals. The pressure is on Allegri’s men to secure a victory and keep their title hopes alive.

You can find more information about Serie A standings and results on ESPN.

Looking Ahead

Milan will need to rely on other attacking options in Pulisic’s absence. The performance against Bologna will be a crucial test of their depth and resilience as they navigate a challenging Serie A season. Fans will be eagerly awaiting updates on Pulisic’s recovery and hoping for his swift return to the pitch.