In a dramatic twist ahead of Sunday's Serie A showdown, AC Milan star Christian Pulisic has been ruled out of the crucial clash against Atalanta due to a gluteal muscle issue. The American winger reported the problem during the team's final training session, leaving manager Massimiliano Allegri to reshuffle his plans just hours before kick-off.

This unexpected development could be a game-changer for Rafael Leao, who was widely expected to be benched following Milan's disappointing 2-0 loss to Sassuolo last weekend. Instead, the Portuguese forward now appears set for what many see as a last-chance saloon to prove his worth and secure his future at the San Siro.

Leao has struggled to find form recently, failing to score in his last seven league appearances despite notching nine Serie A goals this season. With mounting speculation about a potential summer exit, Sunday's match against a formidable Atalanta side offers the perfect platform for redemption.

Pulisic's absence is a significant blow for Milan. After an impressive first half of the 2025-26 campaign with eight league goals, the 27-year-old has hit a barren spell, failing to find the net for club or country since the turn of the year. The extent of his injury remains unclear, with further updates expected in the coming days.

For Allegri, the timing couldn't be worse. The defeat to Sassuolo has piled pressure on the team, and with Champions League qualification hanging in the balance, every point matters. The coach was already planning to shake up his attacking lineup, but Pulisic's late withdrawal forces another rethink.

As the Rossoneri prepare to face a high-flying Atalanta side known for their relentless pressing and attacking flair, all eyes will be on Leao. Can he rise to the occasion and silence his critics, or will this be the final chapter in his Milan story? Sunday evening at the Gewiss Stadium promises to deliver answers.