Samuel Chukwueze is optimistic as the new season begins for AC Milan, given the progress he has made and the available resources.
The Nigerian international stands out during Milan’s pre-season, scoring against Real Madrid and helping to score a winner against Manchester City as reported by Sportsbuddy.
In an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, the 25-year-old explained his path, his problems, and joy at the family spirit of Milan.
Finding Family in Football
Chukwueze was happy at Milan and reiterated the essence of confidence and togetherness within the group.
“Milan is a family, not just a team. We do everything together,” he said, citing his relationships with colleagues such as Yacine Adli, Fikayo Tomori, and team leader Davide Calabria.
This feeling of inclusion and solidarity has been very instrumental in his integration and development as a player in the club.
Overcoming Early Challenges
Looking back at his childhood, the player remembered how challenging it was for him to pursue football in Nigeria.
His mother like any good parent from Africa valued education and at first was against him playing football.
“She once told me ‘football will never make you money’,” Chukwueze recalled. Nevertheless, Chukwueze did not give up on the sport and regardless of her attempts to discourage him such as burning his shoes and shirts.
A Turning Point
The turning point in his journey was when his cousin’s brother told him about a trial opening in the city.
His mother was reluctant at first but his grandmother stepped in and persuaded her to allow him to go to school.
“When I got there they told me it was finished. But they allowed me to practice individually, saw my dribbling skills and they switched the decision,” Chukwueze narrated.
This opportunity paved the way for his involvement in a tournament in Portugal which was the start of his professional footballing career.
As Chukwueze plans for the next season with AC Milan, his story of moving from Nigeria to one of the worlds giants is inspiring.
Now that he is surrounded by Milan family and bolstering his confidence, he is well poised to make a difference on the field.
