Samuel Chukwueze reveals biggest challenge of playing new role under Ruben Amorim

Super Eagles attacker Samuel Chukwueze has admitted that adapting to Ruben Amorim’s tactical demands is his biggest challenge at AC Milan after being handed a completely new role by the Portuguese coach.

Chukwueze, 27, returned to Milan this summer following a loan spell at Premier League side Fulham, where he enjoyed a decent campaign and had hoped to remain permanently.

The London club, however, opted against signing him despite his desire to stay, leaving the Nigerian facing an uncertain future at the San Siro.

Milan had also been expected to consider selling the winger, who still has two years remaining on his contract, after two difficult seasons since his arrival from Villarreal. Amorim’s appointment, though, has changed the outlook for Chukwueze, with the new coach making it clear that he wants to keep the Nigerian in his plans.

Amorim gives Chukwueze a new challenge

Amorim’s preference for a 3-4-3 system has seen Chukwueze move into an unfamiliar position, with the winger being deployed as a wing-back during Milan’s pre-season campaign.

It is a significant tactical adjustment for the Nigerian, who has spent most of his professional career operating further forward. Despite the change, he has featured for at least 45 minutes in each of Milan’s pre-season matches, giving him valuable time to understand the demands of the role.

His adaptation reached a new level on Saturday when Milan defeated Manchester United 4-2 in their final friendly before the new Serie A campaign.

Chukwueze produced his best display of pre-season, scoring once and providing two assists as Milan secured an emphatic victory. His performance also earned him the highest rating on the pitch and strengthened his case for a place in Amorim’s starting XI.

‘I’ve never played in this role’

Speaking after the victory, Chukwueze acknowledged that the position remains a major adjustment but insisted he is determined to embrace the challenge.

“Yes, even though it’s a position I need to adapt to because I’ve never played in this role in my career,” Chukwueze told Gazzetta.

“As a footballer, if a coach wants you to play in a certain position, you have to do it by believing in yourself and in the coach, because he knows what he wants.”

The Nigerian believes the opportunity could help him establish himself under Amorim, despite recognising the difficulties involved in playing the position.

“So, I just need to keep committing, believing in myself, and knowing that I can do it. For me, it’s an opportunity I have to seize. I know it’s a difficult task, but I believe in myself. I know I can do it, I can do anything.”

Chukwueze vows to keep improving

Chukwueze also credited Amorim and the technical staff for helping him understand the defensive and tactical responsibilities that come with his new position.

“I like how the team is playing. For me, I think it’s something I need to work on.”

“It’s the first time I’m playing in this position, so I’m continuing to work hard. I need to improve with every training session. I think the technical staff are helping me.”

The former Villarreal star revealed that Amorim has been directly involved in correcting his mistakes during training as he continues to learn the demands of the system.

“The coach is also helping me. Every time I make a mistake, he tells me: ‘Oh, Chukwueze, this is what you need to do.’ So, I think I’ll improve before the start of the season.”

Torino awaits

Milan’s victory over Manchester United marked the end of their pre-season preparations ahead of the 2026/27 Serie A campaign.

The Rossoneri will begin their league campaign away to Torino at the Stadio Olimpico di Torino on August 23, with Chukwueze now firmly in contention to start.

After an uncertain summer and a positional switch that initially appeared unconventional, the Nigerian has given Amorim plenty to consider. His performance against Manchester United could prove crucial as he seeks to turn a difficult period at Milan into a fresh start under the Portuguese coach.