Super Eagles star Samuel Chukwueze has provided a candid explanation for his underwhelming spell at Italian Serie A giants, AC Milan, pointing to a fundamental clash between his playing style and the tactical demands of Italian football.
The Nigerian international, who is currently experiencing a remarkable career resurgence on loan at English Premier League side Fulham, made these revelations while in camp with the national team ahead of the upcoming AFCON tournament.
Chukwueze's Honest Reflection on Milan Struggles
Chukwueze joined AC Milan from Spanish club Villarreal in the summer of 2023 for a reported fee of €21.1 million plus add-ons. Despite high expectations following his impressive performances in LaLiga, the winger failed to secure a consistent starting role at the San Siro.
In total, he managed to score eight goals in approximately 70 appearances across all competitions for the Rossoneri. His time there was not without highlights, however, as he netted a memorable UEFA Champions League winner against Newcastle United and scored his first Serie A goal versus Hellas Verona.
Reflecting on his challenges, Chukwueze emphasized the tactical rigidity he encountered. "I think I wasn’t given the time in Serie A and didn’t have the opportunities I wanted. But that’s what happens in football," he stated. He further explained that English tactics are probably better suited to my style of play than Italian ones, highlighting how his reliance on pace and direct attacking was often stifled in a league that prioritizes defensive structure and discipline.
A Fond Farewell and a New Beginning at Fulham
Despite the on-field difficulties, Chukwueze spoke warmly of his time in Italy, calling Milan his "second home" and expressing affection for the city where his family remained. "Yes, I miss it... It’s a beautiful city, but everyone has to focus on their own lives. They’re doing well, and I wish them all the best, especially since I’m still a Milan player, since I’m on loan," he remarked.
His move to Fulham on a season-long loan last summer has proven to be a masterstroke. Under manager Marco Silva, Chukwueze has been granted the freedom and confidence to attack defenders, qualities that have brought out the best in his game. His revival has been marked by standout performances, including a Man of the Match display against the formidable Manchester City.
This resurgence is quantified by an impressive statistic: before a recent match, Chukwueze had recorded two goals and three assists in just 229 minutes of Premier League play. This gave him the best minutes-per-goal contribution ratio in the league's history for any player with over 200 minutes played at that point in the season.
What Does the Future Hold for the Super Eagles Star?
The loan deal with Fulham includes a buy option reported to be between €25 and €30 million. Given his explosive return to form in England, his future now appears firmly pointed away from a permanent return to AC Milan and Serie A.
When asked about his next steps, Chukwueze kept his options open, stating, "I have to keep working hard, and maybe I’ll return to Serie A or LaLiga, or I’ll stay in the Premier League." For now, his focus will be on continuing his rich vein of form for Fulham and contributing to the Super Eagles' campaign at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations.
The story of Samuel Chukwueze serves as a potent reminder of how crucial the right tactical environment is for a player's success, and how a change of scenery can reignite the career of even the most talented footballers.
