AC Milan’s manager, Stefano Pioli, has publicly called upon Super Eagles sensation Samuel Chukwueze to elevate his performance and become a pivotal force in the team’s attacking third.
The 24-year-old winger, who joined the seven-time UEFA Champions League titans last summer after an impressive six-year spell at Villarreal in Spain’s top flight, has come under scrutiny for his underwhelming displays in his new Italian surroundings.
During his time with Villarreal, Chukwueze achieved success by clinching the UEFA Europa League in 2021, triumphing over Ole Gunnar Solskjær’s Manchester United in a thrilling penalty shootout. His significant contribution to Villarreal included involvement in 68 goals. However, his transition to AC Milan has not seen him replicate his previous form, with just two goals in twenty-one appearances.
Chukwueze finds himself in a tight race for the right-wing slot with former Borussia Dortmund star Christian Pulisic. Pulisic’s outstanding performances, boasting eight goals and seven assists across all competitions, have set a high standard. Pioli’s recent comments shed light on the situation, emphasizing the need for Chukwueze to match or exceed Pulisic’s contributions.
“Pulisic and Chukwueze have the same characteristics, they’re similar players and play the same positions. Pulisic scores goals, gets assists, and creates chances. He works, and Chukwueze has to do the same. He has to score goals, get assists, and has to work,” Pioli articulated on the club’s official website.
The recent decision not to deploy Chukwueze in the 1-1 draw against Atalanta, with Ademola Lookman taking to the field instead, was a clear message from Pioli. It underscores the coach’s current stance and expectation for a more decisive impact from the Nigerian international.
As AC Milan continues its pursuit of domestic and European success, the pressure is on Chukwueze to rise to the occasion, replicating his previous success and proving his worth in the highly competitive Italian Serie A.
