During the summer, from the day after the end of the season, the dominant topic that fills the footballing calendar is undoubtedly the transfer market. Arrivals, departures, players deemed surplus to requirements, targets, prices, all of these issues almost completely shift attention away from the pitch. Milan are certainly no exception, especially in a summer that began after a disastrous season (by the owner's own admission) and with a complete revolution at both boardroom level and in the coaching department.
Having joined Fulham on loan in the summer of 2025, the Nigerian played 25 games for the Cottagers, 23 in the Premier League and two in the domestic cups, scoring three goals and providing four assists. Not a memorable return, certainly, but the 1,074 minutes he accumulated in England may have left their mark on the Milan winger's mentality. At the start of the season, nobody expected Amorim to turn a player who had seemingly become surplus to requirements into a resource, so much so that the coach's words about Chukwueze at his unveiling conference caught everyone by surprise. Two months later, with pre-season now over, that decision appears to have been absolutely vindicated.
He played 240 minutes across four matches, scoring once and providing three assists (two against Manchester United and one for Camarda against Celtic) and, beyond the numbers, his performances have become increasingly convincing.
Will this season be Chukwueze's redemption at AC Milan?
Obviously, one important premise must be made: pre-season is in no way comparable to competitive matches, meaning these four performances are not enough for the No. 21 to fully regain the trust of the Milan fans. The real season begins next week, and that is when he will have to start repaying the faith shown in him by his coach.
His position also seemed potentially unsuitable. Playing as a wide player in a 3-4-2-1 did not appear to be the ideal role for the Nigerian, given the significant defensive work required. Yet, as things stand, his tremendous attacking power and ability to provide goals and assists have undoubtedly outweighed his defensive shortcomings.
For now, with Serie A just around the corner, Amorim and the Rossoneri faithful can enjoy Samu Chukwueze and hope that his performances continue to improve and help bring important points back to Milan.
