Chukwueze thriving in new wing-back role under Amorim at AC Milan

Samuel Chukwueze says adapting to Ruben Amorim’s tactical demands has been the biggest challenge of his new role at AC Milan, although the Nigeria international has made an impressive start to life as a wing-back.

The 27-year-old was outstanding in AC Milan’s 4-2 pre-season victory over Manchester United on Saturday, scoring once and setting up two goals. His display saw him finish as the highest-rated player on the pitch and strengthened expectations that he can carry his form into the new Serie A campaign.

Chukwueze spent last season on loan at Premier League club Fulham. Despite enjoying a decent spell in London and telling the club that he wanted to remain, Fulham ultimately decided not to sign him permanently.

With two years still remaining on his AC Milan contract, the Rossoneri had been expected to sell the winger after he struggled to establish himself during his first two seasons at the club.

Those expectations changed when Amorim confirmed during his opening news conference as AC Milan coach that he wanted to keep the Super Eagles attacker.

The Portuguese manager is known for using a 3-4-3 formation, leading to speculation that Chukwueze could be asked to operate as a wing-back rather than in his more familiar attacking position.

That prediction has proved accurate. Chukwueze has played for at least 45 minutes in each of AC Milan’s pre-season fixtures, featuring in the unfamiliar role as Amorim continues to shape his team.

The match against Manchester United was his strongest performance of the summer. His goal and two assists provided a decisive contribution to the victory and offered an indication of how effective he could become in the system.

The position represents a new challenge for Chukwueze, who has not played as a wing-back at any point in his professional career. He has nevertheless impressed while adjusting to the responsibilities required by Amorim’s tactics.

After the win over Manchester United, Chukwueze discussed the demands of the system and the process of adapting to his new position. His comments highlighted the work required as he prepares for a potentially important season with AC Milan.

The victory was AC Milan’s final friendly before the start of the 2026/27 Serie A season. The Rossoneri will begin their league campaign against Torino at the Stadio Olimpico di Torino on 23 August.

Chukwueze is in line to start that match and will hope to help AC Milan begin the season strongly after an encouraging pre-season under their new coach.