AC Milan transfers: Two challenges Samuel Chukwueze could face under Amorim

Published on by

Super Eagles forward Samuel Chukwueze could be set for an important role at AC Milan under new manager Ruben Amorim ahead of next season, Afrik-Foot reports.

Chukwueze’s future at the San Siro had been surrounded by uncertainty, but Amorim’s appointment earlier this summer could finally provide some clarity over his long-term future at the club.

The Nigerian winger spent last season on loan at Fulham in the Premier League. Although he showed flashes of his quality and produced some impressive performances, the London club eventually decided against making the move permanent.

That decision reignited speculation over his future, with several clubs showing interest, including Turkish Cup winners Trabzonspor, who were keen to strengthen their attack ahead of next season.

Super Eagles players
Samuel Chukwueze and Paul Onuachu. Photo by Vincent Kamto Copyright: xVincentxKAMTOxImago

However, Chukwueze could now be set for an extended stay at AC Milan. Amorim is reportedly interested in keeping the Super Eagles star as part of his plans, with the winger expected to play an important role as the Portuguese coach oversees a major rebuild at the club.

Two major challenges Chukwueze could face at AC Milan

While reports reveal that Chukwueze may be given another opportunity to prove himself at AC Milan, there are still a number of challenges he must overcome to adapt successfully to Amorim’s style of play.

The first challenge is his defensive contribution and work rate. Amorim is well known for his preferred 3-4-3 formation, a system that demands a lot from wide players. His wingers are expected to contribute in attack while also tracking back to support defensively whenever the team loses possession.

This was one of the qualities that helped Amad Diallo thrive under Amorim at Manchester United. While Chukwueze is undoubtedly dangerous going forward with his pace and dribbling ability, his defensive game has often been questioned.

AC Milan stars Samuel Chukwueze (Nigeria) and Rafael Leao (Portugal)
AC Milan stars Samuel Chukwueze (Nigeria) and Rafael Leao (Portugal). Copyright: IMAGO/italyphotopressx

If he wants to secure a regular starting place under Amorim, he will need to improve his defensive awareness, pressing and willingness to help the team without the ball. Those improvements could allow his attacking qualities to flourish within the manager’s system.

Another challenge Chukwueze must overcome is consistency. The Nigerian has shown on several occasions that he can produce match-winning performances. However, maintaining that level throughout an entire season has often been difficult.

He would be expected to deliver high intensity and quality week after week. Chukwueze will need to avoid long dips in form and consistently produce goals, assists and strong performances if he is to remain a key player in the team.

Samuel Chukwueze of Fulham
Samuel Chukwueze. Copyright: Imago

The upcoming pre-season will provide him with an excellent opportunity to prove he can meet those demands and convince Amorim that he deserves a prominent role.

If Chukwueze can overcome these challenges, he has every chance of becoming an important player for AC Milan next season and potentially secure his long-term future at the club.

<!-- Author Start -->Ayomide Oguntimehin<!-- Author End -->

Ayomide Oguntimehin

Editor Site Coordinator

  • Football
  • Sports Journalism
  • Odds
  • MMA
  • Boxing

Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and Editor at Soccernet.ng & Afrik Foot. Ayomide has worked with Sports Brief, Naija News and served as Social Lead Editor at Legit.ng. He has also featured on Goal, TVC News, Sports Mole, Topmercato, and Milan News24, among others. He holds a master’s degree and is currently pursuing a PhD. Follow Ayomide on X: @ayo_oguntimehin.