2 Samuel Chukwueze secrets to success under Ruben Amorim at AC Milan

Samuel Chukwueze starts the 2026-27 season with a new chance to rebuild his AC Milan career, Afrik-Foot reports.

The Nigeria international joined Milan from Villarreal in July 2023 for a deal worth about €20 million plus bonuses. Expectations were high after he helped Villarreal reach the UEFA Champions League semi-finals and became one of La Liga’s most dangerous wingers.

His time in Italy has not gone as planned. Chukwueze struggled to secure a regular starting place and often found himself behind other attacking players in the pecking order. Last season, he spent part of the campaign away from San Siro on loan as he searched for more playing time and confidence.

Now, the 27-year-old has a fresh opportunity under new AC Milan coach Ruben Amorim. Amorim has used Chukwueze in a wider wing-back role during pre-season. It is a position that demands strong defensive work, quick recovery runs, and attacking support down the flank.

The Nigerian, who was previously linked with a return to Spain, has already shown encouraging signs. During Milan’s pre-season programme, he delivered energetic displays and caught attention in the friendly against Manchester United, Amorim’s former club. His movement, pressing, and willingness to learn the new role gave Milan supporters reasons to be optimistic before the Serie A campaign begins. The Super Eagles star scored one and assisted two others as Milan powered to a thrilling 4-2 win.

Still, Chukwueze has a lot to do to secure his spot in this new-look Milan side. The Nigeria international knows that talent alone will not be enough. His own words point to two key factors that could help him succeed.

Chukwueze Secret One: Believe in himself

The first secret is self-belief. The new position is unfamiliar territory for Chukwueze. Throughout his professional career at Villarreal and Milan, he was known mainly as a winger who attacked defenders in one-on-one situations.

Now he must learn different movements, defensive responsibilities, and positioning. When asked about the role, Chukwueze made it clear that confidence is essential.

“Yes, even though it’s a position I need to adapt to because I’ve never played in this role in my career,” Chukwueze told Gazzetta. “As a footballer, if a coach wants you to play in a certain position, you have to do it by believing in yourself and in the coach, because he knows what he wants.”

He also stressed that he must keep pushing himself through the difficult learning process.

“So, I just need to keep committing, believing in myself and that I can do it. For me, it’s an opportunity I have to seize. I know it’s a difficult task, but I believe in myself. I know I can do it, I can do anything.”

Those comments show a player who understands the challenge ahead. Milan’s system requires discipline and concentration. A lack of confidence could quickly expose weaknesses. Chukwueze believes his mindset can help him adapt and earn a regular place in Amorim’s team.

Secret Two: Believe in Ruben Amorim

The second secret is trust in the manager and his staff. Amorim built his reputation at Sporting CP with a tactical system that improved many players by giving them clear roles and responsibilities. Milan appointed him because of his ability to develop talent and build organised teams.

Chukwueze has already spoken positively about the guidance he receives from the coaching staff.

“Yes, quite a lot. For me, I think it’s something I need to work on. It’s the first time I’m playing in this position, so I’m continuing to work hard. I need to improve with every training session.”

The Super Eagles winger also explained how Amorim gives direct instructions whenever mistakes happen.

“I think the technical staff are helping me. The coach is also helping me. Every time I make a mistake, he tells me: ‘Oh, Chukwueze, this is what you need to do.’ So, I think I’ll improve before the start of the season.”

Those words suggest that Amorim sees potential in the Nigerian and is investing time in his development.

If Chukwueze keeps believing in himself and continues to trust Amorim’s methods, this season could become the turning point that finally unlocks his full value at AC Milan.