Samuel Chukwueze made an immediate statement under new AC Milan head coach Ruben Amorim, producing an eye-catching second-half display and providing a crucial assist as the Rossoneri fought back from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Scottish champions Celtic in a pre-season friendly at Celtic Park.
With Milan trailing 2-0 at the break, Amorim introduced the Nigerian winger for the second half, and the 26-year-old wasted little time making his presence felt. His pace, creativity, and direct running transformed Milan’s attack as the visitors mounted an impressive comeback.
Chukwueze’s defining moment came in the 52nd minute when he produced a brilliant cross with the outside of his left foot for teenage striker Francesco Camarda, who finished confidently to complete Milan’s fightback after the youngster had earlier reduced the deficit from the penalty spot.
Chukwueze Dominates the Second Half
Despite playing only 45 minutes, the Super Eagles star emerged as one of the game’s standout performers, finishing with impressive attacking numbers:
- 1 assist
- 5 chances created (most in the match)
- 6 touches in the opposition penalty area (most)
- 4 successful dribbles (most)
His energetic display showcased the qualities that made him one of La Liga’s most exciting wingers during his time at Villarreal, consistently troubling Celtic’s defence with his ability to beat defenders in one-on-one situations.
Amorim’s Faith Already Paying Off
Chukwueze’s performance comes after Ruben Amorim publicly backed the Nigerian earlier in pre-season, putting an end to speculation over his future following the expiration of his loan spell at Premier League side Fulham.
The winger spent the 2025/26 season with the Cottagers, contributing three goals and four assists in 26 appearances, but Fulham opted against making the move permanent.
Amorim has since made it clear that the Nigerian remains an important part of his plans.
“Chukwueze will stay with us because he’s one against one and I think we need players that can go one-on-one,” the Milan boss said.
The Portuguese coach has been deploying Chukwueze in a right-sided attacking midfield role within his preferred 3-4-2-1 formation, a system that appears well suited to the winger’s strengths.
Bright Start to a New Chapter
Celtic had looked in complete control after first-half goals from Camilo Duran and James Forrest put the Scottish champions two goals ahead. However, Milan produced a spirited second-half response, with Camarda’s brace and Chukwueze’s creativity ensuring the Italian giants left Glasgow with a deserved draw.
For Chukwueze, the performance represents an encouraging start under a new manager and offers fresh hope of reviving his AC Milan career after two inconsistent seasons following his move from Villarreal in 2023.
With the Serie A season fast approaching, the Nigerian international has strengthened his claim for a regular starting place, and if his display against Celtic is any indication, he could become one of Ruben Amorim’s most important attacking weapons in the months ahead.
