Nigeria international Samuel Chukwueze is entering the new football season with renewed optimism at AC Milan under the guidance of coach Paulo Fonseca.
After a challenging debut season, during which he started with just one goal in 24 appearances, the former Villarreal man seems to have turned a corner in his Milan career.
Chukwueze has rediscovered his form, delivering a series of impressive performances in the team's recent preseason friendlies. He contributed two assists in Milan's 3-2 victory over Manchester City last Saturday and followed it up by scoring the decisive goal in the team's 1-0 win over Real Madrid.
The winger admits that earning the trust of the coaching staff was initially challenging, but he now feels rejuvenated with Fonseca's guidance and the support of club legend Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
How Fonseca, Ibrahimovic are tapping into the real Samuel Chukwueze
In an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, Chukwueze opened up about his aspirations and experiences at AC Milan ahead of the new season.
“The coach gives me confidence,” he said. “Now I have to show that I'm worthy of Milan. I think this is my moment. I want to beat my record of six goals in the league.
“Fonseca told me only one thing: ‘Samuel, I don't want to see the Chukwueze of last year. I want the one from Villarreal'. And I said: ‘Ok, no problem'. It's as if I've been reborn. I'm a new player.
Samuel Chukwueze also touched on the relationship he has developed with his teammates, particularly Ibrahimovic, who never shies away from offering direct feedback.
“Ibra is very tough, my goodness. But he's a good guy: he's tough in business, always direct. He tells me: ‘Chuk, we expected you to score…'. And then, when I score: ‘Ah, finally, but you should have scored two. Next time don't joke in front of goal.’”
