Christian Pulisic focusing on himself ahead of fresh challenge with Chelsea

USA international Christian Pulisic has said that he is focusing on himself as he embarks on a fresh challenge with Chelsea next season. The young attacker joined the Blues on a permanent basis from Borussia Dortmund last winter and he was therefore loaned out to the Bundesliga side for the remainder of the season.

During this period, there has been increasing speculation regarding the future of Eden Hazard, who has been the Blues’ star performer but Pulisic has indicated that he is not looking to replicate the Belgium international at the Bridge, he said: “Eden’s a fantastic player, we all know that. If I can get anywhere close to him, I’ll be more than happy. But I’m coming in to be my own player. I expect a lot from myself, for me that’s enough. Obviously there’s pressure from outside – that’s to be expected. I want to be successful, be part of this team and make an impact. They are my goals and to become the best player I can be.”

Hazard has just 13 months remaining on his current contract with the Blues and reports indicate that he has a good chance of joining Real Madrid this summer irrespective of the club’s ongoing transfer ban. As such, Pulisic could be the player to take up the mantle from the Belgian footballer and it remains to be seen whether he can make an instant impression with the Blues. Pulisic is currently in London to finalise the necessary introductory formalities with the Blues and he is thereafter expected to join the United States team for the Gold Cup. Chelsea, on the other hand, can end the season on a high, should they overcome Arsenal to the Europa League crown. The west London side have already sealed Champions League football for next season after securing the third spot in the Premier League.