By Dorcas Francis Koji
Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze has been given a fresh opportunity to revive his AC Milan career after being included in the club’s squad for its pre-season tour, as new head coach Ruben Amorim continues to assess his options ahead of the 2026/27 season.
The Nigerian international, whose future at the San Siro has been the subject of speculation throughout the summer transfer window, will be hoping to impress Amorim and secure a place in the Portuguese tactician’s plans.
AC Milan confirmed Chukwueze’s inclusion in the travelling squad alongside several key players, including Rafael Leão, Pervis Estupiñán, and Fikayo Tomori, as the Rossoneri prepare for a series of high-profile pre-season fixtures.
The Italian giants head into the tour after playing out an entertaining 2-2 draw against Celtic in Glasgow and are scheduled to face city rivals Inter Milan in Perth before taking on Chelsea in Jakarta on August 8.
Amorim is expected to use the tour to evaluate every member of his squad, particularly players whose long-term futures remain uncertain.
Among those attracting transfer interest are defender Fikayo Tomori, who has reportedly been linked with Newcastle United, while Pervis Estupiñán continues to be associated with a possible move to Aston Villa.
Portuguese forward Rafael Leão, who is still on holiday following his participation at the FIFA Club World Cup, is expected to join the squad later during the tour, with Milan showing no immediate intention of parting ways with one of their biggest stars.
Experienced midfielder Luka Modrić, Gonçalo Ramos, Alexis Saelemaekers, Ardon Jashari, and Koni De Winter are also expected to link up with the squad as preparations continue.
Defender Mario Gila has also travelled despite recovering from a minor muscle injury sustained during the friendly against Celtic.
For Chukwueze, however, the upcoming matches could prove decisive.
After returning to Milan following a loan spell at Fulham, where he rediscovered his confidence, the 26-year-old is eager to convince Amorim that he deserves a regular role in the squad rather than another move away from the club.
Fulham opted not to activate the €26 million purchase option included in the loan agreement despite the winger contributing three goals and four assists in 23 Premier League appearances.
During his time at Craven Cottage, Chukwueze formed an impressive attacking partnership with fellow Super Eagles stars Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey, producing several eye-catching performances.
With the new campaign fast approaching, the Nigerian winger now has another opportunity to prove his quality and establish himself at one of Europe’s most successful clubs.
The pre-season tour could ultimately determine whether Chukwueze remains part of AC Milan’s project or seeks a new challenge before the transfer window closes.
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