AC Milan head coach Paulo Fonseca praised Samuel Chukwueze’s defensive contributions during the team’s 3-0 victory over Empoli at the San Siro on Sunday. The Nigerian winger, who had started in Milan’s 3-2 Champions League win over Slovan Bratislava last week, found himself on the bench for this Serie A encounter, with Yunus Musah preferred on the right wing.
Despite not starting, Chukwueze played a crucial role after coming on as a substitute.
Fonseca explained the tactical reasoning behind his choice to start Musah, highlighting the importance of his defensive work rate against Empoli’s long-ball strategy.
I’m really enjoying Musah there,” Fonseca remarked. “Empoli played a lot of long balls, and it was important to have this role to help the team.
I was also very pleased with the way Chukwueze played this role, who came back into the box twice to play fifth.
This module gives us balance.”
Chukwueze nearly had an assist late in the game when his cross found Tammy Abraham at the back post, but the English forward shot wide from close range.
Although Chukwueze has not yet secured a regular starting spot since his summer transfer from Villarreal, his performances off the bench continue to demonstrate his importance to the team.
The 24-year-old has made 13 appearances across all competitions for Milan, scoring just once.
His current situation has sparked interest from Turkish side Besiktas, who are reportedly considering a January move for the winger.
However, Milan view Chukwueze as a valuable backup for key players like Christian Pulisic and Rafael Leao, which could complicate any potential transfer.
Chukwueze will be hoping for more starting opportunities as Milan aim to build on their recent improvement in form, following a tough start to the season.
