Chukwueze Starts New Milan Chapter With Man of the Match Display
Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze has made a strong start to his new chapter at AC Milan, with his new role as a wing-back already showing promising signs.
The Nigeria international was named Man of the Match after helping Milan beat Torino 2-1 in their opening Serie A game on Sunday.
Chukwueze provided the assist for Adrien Rabiot’s winning goal and also worked hard defensively in a position that requires more than his usual attacking duties as a winger.
Chukwueze responds to Amorim’s trust
Milan head coach Ruben Amorim has shown faith in Chukwueze by moving him further back and giving him the responsibility of helping the team both defensively and in attack.
Chukwueze believes the coach’s trust has given him an opportunity he must make the most of after returning to Milan from his loan spell at Fulham.
“He simply showed faith in me, and I think I need to make the most of it,” Chukwueze said in an interview with Gazzetta IT.
“I can’t waste this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity – to return to Milan after the loan spell.”
The new role comes with challenges, as Chukwueze is naturally more comfortable attacking than defending. However, his performance against Torino showed that he is ready to learn and adapt.
The Nigerian had previously revealed that Amorim has been demanding more from him whenever he makes mistakes.
“Every time I make a mistake, he tells me: ‘Oh, Chukwueze, this is what you need to do.’ So, I think I’ll improve before the start of the season,” he said.
Against Torino, Chukwueze showed clear improvement in his defensive work while still using his pace and attacking ability to help Milan move forward.
Chukwueze ready for the challenge
After the win, Chukwueze was pleased with Milan’s result but quickly turned his attention to the work ahead.
“Now we have to look forward, but I’m very satisfied,” the 27-year-old said in quotes reported by TuttoMercato.
Asked if he was ready to continue playing as a wing-back, the former Villarreal star made it clear that he has accepted the challenge.
“I’m ready, I can’t wait, and I’ll do it all season,” he said.
“I know it’s a difficult task, but I believe in myself. I know I can do it; I can do anything,” Chukwueze added.
His Man of the Match performance against Torino offers an early sign that Amorim’s decision to change his position could pay off.
Chukwueze has shown his quality throughout his career but has struggled for consistency, especially during his previous spell at Milan.
However, his strong start suggests the Nigerian is determined to prove his doubters wrong and make his return to the club a successful one.
