Samuel Chukwueze was named Man of the Match as AC Milan began their 2026/27 Serie A campaign with a 2-1 victory over Torino at the San Siro on Sunday. The Nigerian winger, deployed as a right wing-back by new head coach Ruben Amorim, created four chances—more than any other player on the pitch—and provided an assist for Adrien Rabiot's goal. After the match, Chukwueze confirmed he is fully prepared to operate in the wing-back role for the entire season, stating, "I'm ready, it's my job. I'll give it my all."
Chukwueze's Impact in the Season Opener
Playing in an unfamiliar wing-back position under Amorim, Chukwueze was instrumental in Milan's attacking play. The Rossoneri opened the scoring when Rabiot delivered a precise cross into the box for Alphadjo Cissè to convert. Early in the second half, Chukwueze produced a sharp delivery towards the far post, which Rabiot finished to double Milan's lead at 2-0, according to Sempre Milan.
Substitute Ché Adams pulled one back for Torino in stoppage time, but Milan held on to secure all three points and give Amorim a winning start to his tenure. Beyond his contributions in the final third, Chukwueze impressed defensively, covering ground across the entire right flank throughout the 90 minutes.
Chukwueze's Reaction and Commitment
Speaking after the game alongside goalscorer Cissè, Chukwueze was relaxed but focused in his assessment of the result and what comes next. "I'm happy to be back like this, it gives me confidence. I wanted to start the season like this, I'm happy. But now that's already in the past, let's focus on the next one," he said via Tuttomercato.
When asked whether he was prepared to continue charging up and down the right flank all season, Chukwueze did not hesitate. "I'm ready, it's my job. I'll give it my all," he said. The response will be encouraging for Amorim, who has made the wing-back system central to his tactical setup at Milan following his appointment as head coach. Chukwueze's ability to contribute in both attacking and defensive phases was precisely what the role demands, and his performance in the season opener suggests the Amorim's plan to use him there could pay dividends.
Significance for Chukwueze and Milan's Title Ambitions
For Chukwueze personally, the display carries added significance. After a difficult spell trying to establish himself consistently at Milan, a commanding performance on matchday one, capped with an assist and individual honours, offers a strong platform heading into the rest of the campaign. Milan will be hoping the 25-year-old can sustain this level of form as the club pursues a serious challenge for the Serie A title in the 2026/27 season.
Earlier, Legit.ng reported about Chukwueze's impressive performance as he scored and assisted in AC Milan's 4-2 victory over Manchester United in their final pre-season friendly. With a new role as a wing-back under coach Ruben Amorim, Chukwueze embraces this challenge as an opportunity, inspiring fans with his commitment to adapt and succeed despite the hurdles ahead.
