By Dorcas Francis Koji
AC Milan head coach Ruben Amorim has backed Nigerian winger Samuel Chukwueze to compete for a regular starting role at the Italian giants, while indicating that the Super Eagles star could feature prominently as a wing-back this season.
Chukwueze faces competition from new signing Diego Moreira, who arrived at Milan in a reported €50m deal. However, Amorim believes Moreira’s versatility could allow him to operate in different positions rather than directly displacing the Nigerian.
The Portuguese coach also highlighted the contrasting qualities of both players, suggesting that Chukwueze and Moreira could sometimes play together despite competing for the same position.
“Moreira can play as a full-back on either the right or left; perhaps he’ll play more on the right. At a big club, it’s important to have two excellent players in each position,” Amorim said, according to MilanNews.
“Moreira and Chukwueze have important characteristics that are difficult to find in a single player.”
Amorim added that Milan would need a player capable of providing Chukwueze’s qualities whenever the Nigerian is unavailable, while noting that other players in the squad offer different tactical options.
“If Chukwueze isn’t available, we need a player with the same characteristics so the team doesn’t suffer too much,” he said.
Chukwueze has already demonstrated his ability to adapt to Amorim’s tactical demands after starting Milan’s season opener against Torino as a right wing-back. The Nigerian also contributed an assist in the match.
The 27-year-old expressed satisfaction with his performance and said operating in the unfamiliar position had given him renewed confidence.
“I’m happy to be back like this, it gives me confidence. I wanted to start the season like this, I’m happy,” Chukwueze said.
“But now that’s already in the past, let’s focus on the next one. I’m ready, it’s my job. I’ll give it my all.”
With Moreira capable of playing on either flank and Chukwueze showing that he can adapt to a wing-back role, Amorim now has several options for his wide positions.
For Chukwueze, the challenge will be to maintain his early-season momentum and convince the Milan coach that his pace, creativity and attacking ability remain too valuable to leave out of the starting XI.
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