Tuttosport: Chukwueze experiment shows signs of success – how his future could change

Samuel Chukwueze could be one of the unlikely stars of the summer, leading to a ‘second life’ of sorts at AC Milan.

There are players who seem destined to leave a club and then, almost out of nowhere, find a new path to remain a key player. Chukwueze’s story at Milan seems like it could well fit that story arc, according to Tuttosport (via MilanNews).

Read SempreMilan ad-free and get access to exclusive news. Click here for a free trial!

Having signed in the summer of 2023 with high expectations after his stellar seasons at Villarreal, the Nigerian never fully reached his potential with the Rossoneri. There was not enough consistency, while Christian Pulisic stole the limelight and his spot on the right.

A second life?

The hiring of Ruben Amorim has opened up a completely different scenario. Chukwueze is no longer seen simply as solely a winger, but as a potential asset for the coach’s 3-4-2-1 system. It is a tactical evolution that could represent the turning point in his time at Milan.

The idea is to transform him into a player on the midfield line (as a wing-back), capable of combining acceleration, technical quality. Amorim sees his ability to make an impact with his creativity through crossing and cutting inside.

This role requires sacrifice and a different reading of the game than in the past, but it could showcase some of his best attributes too. Amorim has already demonstrated throughout his career his ability to develop attacking players at wing-back, as seen with Catamo, Quenda and Amad Diallo.

The first sign of this came at Celtic Park, where Chukwueze displayed a different attitude. He was more involved, more aggressive and demonstrated his quality through two gorgeous crosses to Francesco Camarda, the second of which was converted.

Competition on the flank will still be significant. Milan have quality options in that area of the field – including Alexis Saelemaekers and Zachary Athekame – and Amorim will have to find the right balance between their diverse characteristics.

Chukwueze’s contract with Milan expires in 2028, but next year could already be a key moment to evaluate his future. A season as a key player would completely change the perception of him, transforming him from a potential sale to a possible renewal.