AC Milan and Nigeria winger Samuel Chukwueze finds himself in a frustrating situation despite his recent good form. Coach Stefano Pioli has made it clear that he is unwilling to change his preferred formation to accommodate the Nigerian international, leaving him on the bench behind teammate Christian Pulisic.
Chukwueze, who is nicknamed ‘The Nigerian Robben' for excelling at starting wide and then cutting inside to unleash his lethal left foot, reminiscent of the iconic Arjen Robben, has impressed in recent weeks. However, his impact is limited by Pioli's tactical rigidity. The coach prefers a three-forward system, which forces him to choose between Chukwueze and the in-form Pulisic.
Pioli prioritizes formation stability over winger rotation
This dilemma played out again on Saturday in the goalless Serie A draw against Juventus. Chukwueze watched from the sidelines as Pulisic started on the right wing. He only entered the fray with seven minutes remaining, a late substitute for the American.
Pioli defended his decision, highlighting Pulisic's current standing: “I liked Pulisic instead,” he explained to Milan News. “Chukwueze is also fine, but at the moment I won't give up an extra midfielder to play with four attacking players. Therefore, Chukwueze is the one sacrificed the most at the moment.”
Statistics highlight Pulisic's favoured status
The statistics paint a clear picture. Chukwueze has only managed 13 starts in all competitions for AC Milan this season, while Pulisic has been a near-ever-present, starting 40 out of 46 matches. This despite both players arriving at the San Siro last summer for a combined fee of €40 million.
The Super Eagles winger joined the Italian giants from La Liga side, Villarreal CF, having played at Estadio de la Cerámica for five years.
Samuel Chukwueze's challenges: Adapting to a demanding environment
Comparisons to past Nigerian players at Milan, like Taribo West and Taiye Taiwo, prompt questions about the challenges faced by Nigerians at the club.
Some attribute Chukwueze’s difficulties to the demanding nature of playing for such a prestigious club, suggesting that he has struggled to live up to expectations with minimal contributions in terms of assists or goals.
While tactical differences and cultural adjustments may also be factors, Milan’s storied history and lofty standards add pressure on players like Chukwueze to perform.
Debate among fans and pundits: Should Pioli adapt?
Chukwueze's situation has sparked debate among fans and pundits. Some believe Pioli should be more flexible to integrate both wingers. Italian pundit Fabrizio Ponciroli questioned Pioli's approach, stating, “I don't know what he sees in Musah [another winger]. There's Chukwueze in good condition and I don't know why he never plays.” Ponciroli exclaimed to TMW Radio
AC Milan currently sits second in Serie A, nineteen points behind league winners and eternal rivals Inter Milan. Disrupting a winning formula for Chukwueze is a gamble Pioli might not be willing to take.
The question remains: can Chukwueze adapt to Pioli's system? While both he and Pulisic offer similar attacking qualities – pace, dribbling, and an eye for goal – there are subtle differences. Chukwueze is more direct and unpredictable, while Pulisic is known for his work ethic and tactical awareness.
Chukwueze's adaptability and tactical tweak
Perhaps a solution lies in tactical tweaks within the existing formation. Could Chukwueze be utilized as a second striker alongside Olivier Giroud, allowing Pulisic to maintain his wide position? Or could Pioli consider a more attacking formation in certain situations, unleashing the attacking potential of both wingers?
For now, Chukwueze must bide his time and prove his worth in limited opportunities. He can take heart from his recent performances and hope that Pioli will eventually reward his form with a more prominent role.
However, the pressure is on. With the season entering its final stages, Chukwueze needs to deliver impactful performances whenever he gets the chance. Otherwise, he risks facing another season on the fringes at a club with high ambitions.
