The reported injury occurred during the 52nd minute of the United States’ 4-1 last-16 defeat by Belgium. Pulisic stayed on the field before being replaced in the 59th minute, although he was visibly hampered.
That timeline gives Milan a tight margin. Even if Pulisic resumes training before the opener, he may have limited time to rebuild sharpness, confidence and match intensity. A return to the training ground would not automatically mean he is ready for a full competitive workload.
Pulisic is entering his fourth season with Milan and has become an important attacking option from wide areas. His ability to carry the ball, combine in the final third and arrive in scoring positions gives the Rossoneri a different threat from the flank.
A prolonged absence would therefore affect more than one position. Milan could need greater production from their other wide players, while the coaching staff may have to adjust the balance between possession and direct attacks. The reported injury also complicates pre-season planning, when attacking partnerships are normally established.
The crucial marker will be how Pulisic responds to increased work, not simply whether he appears in a group session. With a reported bone injury still awaiting formal confirmation, Milan are likely to prioritise a controlled build-up over an accelerated comeback.
The next storyline is the official medical update and Pulisic’s first unrestricted training session. If he reaches that stage before 23 August, Milan’s optimism will look justified; otherwise, the club may have to plan for Torino without one of its leading attacking outlets.