Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze has opened up on the reasons behind his difficult spell in Serie A, admitting that Italian football was not well suited to his playing style.
The 26-year-old spent two seasons at AC Milan but struggled to establish himself before securing a loan move to Fulham, where he has rediscovered his form and confidence.
Currently in the Super Eagles camp for the Africa Cup of Nations, Chukwueze reflected on his time in Italy, speaking warmly about Milan while offering an honest assessment of his challenges on the pitch.
What Chukwueze said
Despite his struggles, the winger described Milan as a place close to his heart and did not rule out a return in the future.
“Yes, I miss it. It’s my second home,” Chukwueze said.
“My family stayed there, so I miss it. It’s a beautiful city, but everyone has to focus on their own lives. They’re doing well, and I wish them all the best, especially since I’m still a Milan player, since I’m on loan.”
Chukwueze then explained why he found life difficult in Serie A, pointing to limited opportunities and a tactical mismatch.
“I think I wasn’t given the time in Serie A and didn’t have the opportunities I wanted. But that’s what happens in football,” he added.
“I have to keep working hard, and maybe I’ll return to Serie A or LaLiga, or I’ll stay in the Premier League. English tactics are probably better suited to my style of play than Italian ones.”
Chukwueze at Milan
Chukwueze joined Milan from Villarreal in the summer of 2023 on a five-year deal reportedly worth €21.1 million, with an additional €7 million in add-ons. He arrived with a strong reputation after an impressive spell in LaLiga, where he registered 37 goals and 29 assists in 207 appearances for Villarreal.
However, his time in Italy failed to live up to expectations. Across 70 appearances in all competitions for Milan, Chukwueze managed just eight goals and six assists. In Serie A specifically, he recorded four goals and five assists in 51 league matches, never fully cementing a starting role.
Those struggles ultimately led to a loan move to Fulham last summer, which included a reported €25–30 million purchase option.
Revival at Fulham
Under Marco Silva, Chukwueze has found an environment more suited to his strengths pace, direct running and one-on-one attacking. His resurgence has been evident in recent weeks, highlighted by a Man of the Match performance against Manchester City.
Now thriving in the Premier League and brimming with confidence, Chukwueze will be hoping his club revival translates onto the international stage as he looks to play a key role for Nigeria at AFCON 2025.
