With Chelsea Football Club splashing out nearly £60 million on the young American star Christian Pulisic three years ago, the news was abuzz on the kind of impact he could bring to the team. Nicknamed “Captain America” for his leadership within the U.S. National Men’s team, there are high standards set for the 23-year-old and his future. After persistent injuries since the 2019-20 season, he is back strong and proving to Chelsea Manager Thomas Tuchel that he deserves the minutes and a more consistent starting role. 

Chelsea FC has been rotating their starting lineup between their offensive players like Mason Mount, Kai Havertz, Hakim Ziyech, Jorginho, and Romelo Lukaku. Despite starts by Pulisic, he had dropped off in minutes at his favored position on the wing and had started to be pulled back by Tuchel. However, it is clear that Tuchel is starting to recognize the effectiveness of his position attacking from the left up top, and the spot has become more consistent for Pulisic. In the recent league game against Burnley, Chelsea capped off the week with a 4-0 win, with Pulisic scoring the closing goal. With a method finish, the ball of a frantic clearance from the opposing defense had landed at his feet for him to put in the back of the net. Furthermore, Pulisic’s presence in the second half was clear when he started the offensive play of the second goal, with a fantastic cross to N’Golo Kante before the cross to Havertz who put it away with a header. Leading the team with most duels won — 10 — and tackles won—two —  his contributions in the final third paved the way for another start with the upcoming games. 

With Chelsea’s match against Norwich City on Thursday, it is still yet to be seen if Pulisic will be able to earn a consecutive start. It’s clear the combination of Pulisic, Havertz, and Mount is proving strong, and Tuchel will have a lot to think about as the game nears. If Pulisic can keep up the offensive switches across the field on top of his finishing ability in the box, it’s clear that he will become a more consistent contributor for Chelsea. As the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers continue to play out, Captain America’s skill abroad will bring an important presence to a much anticipated and hopeful qualification for the U.S. Men’s National Team after a failure four years ago.