By Dorcas Francis Koji
AC Milan forward Samuel Chukwueze is determined to carry his impressive pre-season form into the new Serie A campaign as he looks to make the most of his fresh opportunity under coach Ruben Amorim.
The 27-year-old Nigerian returned to Milan following a loan spell at Fulham, who opted against triggering the €26 million purchase option in his agreement.
Chukwueze enjoyed a productive spell in England, scoring three goals and providing four assists in 23 Premier League appearances while forming a strong partnership with fellow Nigerians Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey.
Back at Milan, the winger has impressed during pre-season and could now be in line for his most consistent spell in Italy since joining the club in 2023.
Speaking ahead of the new Serie A season, Chukwueze stressed the importance of starting the campaign with a victory.
“Yes, I’m very happy and so is the team. We’ve worked hard all week and are preparing well for the season. We want to start Serie A with a win, to gain the confidence everyone needs. It’s essential that the fans and the club believe in us too,” he said.
Chukwueze was one of Milan’s standout performers in their 4-2 pre-season victory over Manchester United on Saturday, scoring once and providing two assists.
The performance further strengthened his case for a prominent role under Amorim after the coach experimented with his position during pre-season.
Primarily an attacking winger throughout his career, Chukwueze has adapted to a new wing-back role in Amorim’s tactical system and appears increasingly comfortable with the demands of the position.
The Nigerian is now eager to seize the opportunity and establish himself as an important figure at San Siro.
His strong pre-season has also raised hopes that he can finally enjoy a sustained run at Milan after an inconsistent spell since his arrival from Villarreal.
Milan will open their 2026/27 Serie A campaign away to Torino on Sunday, August 23.
Their first home league fixture will follow five days later, when they welcome Venezia on Friday, August 28.
With Chukwueze entering the campaign in confident form and adapting to a new position, the Nigerian will hope his improved performances can help Milan begin the season on a winning note.
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