Samuel Chukwueze: 2 traits behind Nigerian star’s impressive start under Amorim

Super Eagles forward Samuel Chukwueze has enjoyed an impressive start to the 2026-27 season under Ruben Amorim at AC Milan, Afrik-Foot reports.

The 27-year-old returned to Milan in the summer following the end of his loan spell at Premier League side Fulham, where he spent the 2025-26 season.

Chukwueze enjoyed an impressive stint with the Cottagers, but Fulham ultimately decided against making his move permanent, forcing the Nigerian to return to AC Milan ahead of the new campaign.

Since returning to the Italian club, however, Chukwueze has found a new role under head coach Amorim, who is looking to help Milan recover after a difficult 2025-26 season.

The Nigerian impressed during preseason and has carried that form into the new campaign, providing two assists in four games for the club.

He has impressed in his new wing-back role, with his performances showing that he can adapt to Amorim’s system and there are two key qualities have helped him thrive in the position.

Samuel Chukwueze’s pace and skill

One of the biggest attributes helping Chukwueze succeed in his new role is his pace and ability on the ball.

The Nigerian is naturally quick and possesses the dribbling skills needed to beat defenders in one-on-one situations. His ability to carry the ball forward at speed gives Milan another attacking option from the wide areas.

Chukwueze can use his pace to get past defenders, create chances and put opponents under pressure. Those qualities are particularly useful in a wing-back role, where he is expected to contribute both in attack and during transitions.

His speed also allows him to quickly move forward when Milan regain possession while giving him the ability to recover his position when the team loses the ball.

That combination of pace and skill has helped him adapt to the role and become an important part of Amorim’s system.

Physical and mental strength

Another quality that has helped Chukwueze flourish is his physical and mental strength. The Nigerian possesses good upper-body strength and is difficult to dispossess when he has the ball at his feet. His ability to stay strong under pressure allows him to compete effectively against defenders and protect possession in difficult situations.

His mental qualities are also important because the wing-back position requires discipline, concentration and the ability to quickly switch between attacking and defensive duties.

Chukwueze’s physicality and intelligence have therefore helped him adjust to the demands of the role and perform with greater confidence.

If he continues to combine those qualities with his pace and attacking ability, he could remain an important player for Amorim as the season progresses.

Chukwueze will be hoping to produce another impressive performance when AC Milan welcome Benfica to San Siro in their opening Europa League game later today.