It has been a season of ups and downs for AC Milan. Despite bringing in a new manager, Sergio Conceicao, partway through the campaign, the team still has opportunities to secure European qualification for next season. One major chance arrives on Wednesday when Milan faces Bologna in the Coppa Italia final at the Stadio Olimpico. Their path to the final, overcoming strong opponents like Roma and Inter, was somewhat unexpected. A victory in this match could significantly redefine their season, with Christian Pulisic playing a crucial role in their journey.
Winning the final would not only secure a spot in the Europa League for next season but also add major silverware – their second trophy in the last four seasons – an achievement that seemed distant just weeks ago. While AC Milan`s history sets high expectations, this would mark a considerable improvement compared to the decade between their league titles in 2011 and 2021, during which they only won the Supercoppa Italia twice. Thus, securing four consecutive Champions League appearances and winning a league title (implicitly, in 2021) are indeed accomplishments worth celebrating, even alongside the frustrations of the current season.
Milan`s ability to finish the season successfully largely rests on the shoulders of Christian Pulisic. The American international has been indispensable to Milan`s attacking efforts, contributing significantly with goals and assists across Serie A, the Champions League, and the Coppa Italia. While his direct goal involvements in the Coppa Italia this year (2025) haven`t been high, his overall tally of 14 goal contributions in 2025 appearances is the most for any Milan player, slightly ahead of Rafael Leao. For Milan to overcome any defensive vulnerabilities, both Pulisic and Leao need to perform at their peak.
The signing of Mexico striker Santiago Gimenez from Feyenoord has also injected new energy into Milan`s attack, helping to unleash the potential of the wingers. Gimenez is expected to lead the attack in this high-stakes final.
Milan`s top goal contributions in 2025
| Rank | Player | Goals + Assists | Apperances |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Christian Pulisic | 14 | 27 |
| 2 | Rafael Leao | 12 | 26 |
| 3 | Santiago Gimenez | 9 | 17 |
| 4 | Tijjani Reijnders | 8 | 28 |
| 5 | Tammy Abraham | 8 | 25 |
Bologna, Milan`s opponent, overcame a slow start to the season and has become a strong contender for a Champions League spot, built on solid defensive performances. However, AC Milan has also shown their best form recently. Christian Pulisic is no stranger to big matches, having won the Champions League with Chelsea and the DFB Pokal with Borussia Dortmund. The Coppa Italia final provides another significant opportunity to add to his legacy at AC Milan.
This match represents a key moment for Pulisic individually, especially ahead of a crucial summer for both him and the United States Men`s National Team, who are looking to improve their own form. Finishing the club season strongly with a trophy would undoubtedly boost Pulisic`s morale and hunger for success with the USMNT.
How to watch Coppa Italia final
- Date: Wednesday, May 23
- Time: 3 p.m. ET
- Location: Stadio Olimpico — Rome, Italy
- Live stream: Paramount+
- Odds: AC Milan +150; Draw +225; Bologna +185
