By Dorcas Francis Koji
AC Milan winger Samuel Chukwueze appears to be enjoying a fresh start under new coach Ruben Amorim as the Nigerian looks to establish himself at the Italian giants ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Chukwueze was one of Milan’s standout performers in their 4-2 pre-season victory over Manchester United in Wroclaw on Saturday, contributing a goal and two assists.
The impressive display came after a summer of tactical experimentation, with Amorim testing Chukwueze in a new wing-back role.
Traditionally deployed as an attacking winger throughout his career, the 27-year-old has embraced the tactical demands of his new position and believes the confidence shown in him by Amorim can help him make the most of his opportunity at Milan.
“Yes, he’s a good coach. He trusts me, so he gave me an opportunity. Now it’s up to me to seize it,” Chukwueze told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“He simply gave me faith, and I think I have to take advantage of it. I can’t waste this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, returning to Milan after my loan.”
Chukwueze admitted that playing as a wing-back requires significant adaptation because it is a position he has never occupied regularly during his career.
“Although it’s a position I have to adapt to because I’ve never played in this position in my career,” he said.
“As a footballer, if a coach wants you to play in this position, you have to do it by believing in yourself and in the coach, because he knows what he wants.”
The Nigerian is determined to continue working hard and develop his understanding of the role before the competitive season begins.
“I just have to keep working hard, believing in myself and that I can do it. For me, it’s an opportunity I have to seize. I know it’s a difficult task, but I believe in myself. I know I can do it, that I can do anything.”
The former Villarreal winger also praised the way Milan have approached their pre-season campaign but acknowledged that he still has plenty to learn in his unfamiliar position.
“Yes, a lot. For me, I think it’s something I need to work on. It’s my first time playing in this position, so I’m continuing to work hard,” Chukwueze said.
“I need to improve every practice. I think the coaching staff is helping me.”
He also revealed that Amorim has been providing regular guidance whenever he makes mistakes during training.
“The coach is helping me too. Every time I make a mistake, he tells me, ‘Oh, Chukwueze, this is what you have to do.’ So I think I’ll improve before the season starts.”
The strong performance against Manchester United could therefore prove significant as Chukwueze attempts to secure a regular role in Amorim’s plans.
Chukwueze returned to Milan this summer following a loan spell at Fulham, who decided against activating the €26m purchase option included in his agreement.
During his time in the Premier League, the Nigerian recorded three goals and four assists in 23 appearances, while also forming a strong relationship with fellow Nigerians Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey.
Now back at San Siro, Chukwueze has another opportunity to demonstrate his value.
His goal and two assists against Manchester United have provided an early indication that the Nigerian could play a much more influential role for Milan this season, particularly if he continues adapting successfully to Amorim’s tactical demands.
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