There’s a phrase in Italian, Stai zitto. It’s not a nice phrase, google has several results for how not nice it is. Christian Pulisic did the hand signal for this after scoring a goal in the Milan derby over the weekend.
The Derby della Madonnina is a big deal. For one thing, it is named after a statue of the Virgin Mary, a pretty big deal in terms of the major religion of Italy, that stands festooned in gold atop the Milan Cathedral.
Photo by DeAgostini/Getty Images
Time and again Inter and AC Milan have laid siege at the 98 year-old San Siro stadium for her favor. This time it was an American who played a decisive role in determining the fate of the match.
Mama Mia!
It’s the kind of incredible moment that players live for. Pulisic has scored plenty of iconic goals for his country and has been prolific with .42 goals per match with the USA. His club scoring record has been somewhat scant in comparison, though he has certainly faced stiffer competition in the Bundesliga, Premier League and Serie A than in Concacaf.
Last season with AC Milan he seemed to turn a corner and notched 12 goals, his first professional season in double digit scoring.
This goal is special though because he entered a new realm for an American player. He scored in a club derby and then had stuff thrown at him by opposing fans. This detail should not be overlooked and is a sign of how high the star player is reaching.
His manager at AC Milan may favor him, the fans there may adore him, but if rival fans detest him he’s truly stepping into his element as a player. In other words, he is… highkey dank bussin.
It is good he is loved, it means he has skill and that it’s recognized by those who have an affinity towards him. Being hated is another beast, it means his talent is feared and can cause the opponent to be hurt and even devastated. It’s true power and something that few Americans have been able to engender at a high club level.
It always seemed like Pulisic could be special and all signs are pointing in the direction of that turning into a reality. This moment was one that will be etched into the story of his career and is one that can hopefully build to more momentous performances to come.
