Chukwueze, who finalized a move to the seven-time UEFA Champions League champions last summer after an impressive six-year stint at Villareal in Spain’s top flight, is in the news for his dismal performances in his new Italian home.
He won the UEFA Europa League in 2021 while playing for the Yellow Submarines, defeating Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s Manchester United in a thrilling penalty shootout.
He has only managed two goals in twenty-one games since joining the Italian giants, a far cry from his 68-goal contribution at Villareal.
The former Villareal winger is in a close contest with Christian Pulisic, a former star of Borussia Dortmund, for the right-wing spot.
With eight goals and seven assists in all competitions, Pulisic’s outstanding play sets a high standard. Pioli, addressing the situation recently, stated that the Nigerian winger must equal or surpass Pulisic’s contributions.
Pioli’s statement
“Pulisic and Chukwueze have the same characteristics, they’re similar players and play the same positions. Pulisic scores goals, gets assists and creates chances. He works, and Chukwueze has to do the same. He has to score goals, to get assists, and has to work,” Pioli said, as per goal.com
Chukwueze as an unused sub
The recent 1-1 draw against Atalanta, which saw the 24-year-old winger observe from the bench while fellow Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman was in action for the opposing side, is a clear message from Pioli. The coach’s choice to forgo using Chukwueze is indicative of his present stance and expectation for better performance from the Nigerian winger.
The Nigerian winger has to step up to the plate as AC Milan pursues its goals of winning both domestically and in Europe, building on his prior achievements and demonstrating his mettle in the fiercely competitive Italian Serie A.
