Obafemi Martins has advised fellow Nigerian international Samuel Chukwueze to seek a move away from AC Milan at the end of the current campaign, citing a lack of consistent playing time as a major factor hampering the winger’s development.
Chukwueze made the switch to the Italian giants from Spanish side Villarreal in 2023 with high expectations, but his first season at San Siro has failed to live up to the billing.
Despite flashes of promise, the 24-year-old has struggled to cement a regular place in Stefano Pioli’s starting XI, often finding himself on the bench or used as a substitute.
Martins encouraged Chukwueze to explore opportunities elsewhere, suggesting that a fresh environment could help the winger rediscover his rhythm and confidence.
“The Saudi Pro League is becoming increasingly competitive,” Martins said. “If a good offer comes along, why not? The main thing is for him to play and become a regular again. Rhythm and confidence are essential for him.”
Martins, who once lit up the European stage himself with spells at Inter Milan, Newcastle United and Wolfsburg, stressed the importance of consistent game time for a player in Chukwueze’s position, particularly at this stage of his career.
The former striker believes that without regular minutes, even a talented player can lose form and momentum.
The 2007 Coppa Italia winner also pointed to the wider consequences of Chukwueze’s club struggles, notably his performances with the Nigerian national team.
Martins, who represented the Super Eagles over a decade-long international career, expressed concern that Chukwueze’s dip at club level has mirrored a decline in his effectiveness for the national side.
“He definitely needs to get back into his groove if he wants to continue being an asset to Nigeria,” Martins added.
“A move is necessary if he wants to retain his place and perform well for the national team.”
Chukwueze had emerged as one of Nigeria’s brightest young talents during his time at Villarreal, where his pace, dribbling, and creativity made him a standout in La Liga.
His performances helped the Spanish side secure the UEFA Europa League title in 2021 and earned him admiration from across Europe.
However, the transition to Serie A has been less smooth. The tactical demands of Italian football, coupled with intense competition for places at AC Milan, have seen his opportunities limited.
As a result, Chukwueze has been unable to replicate the form that once made him one of the most exciting African exports in Europe.
With the summer transfer window approaching, the former Villarreal man may now be at a crossroads in his career. Whether a move to Saudi Arabia or another European destination is in the offing remains to be seen, but the message from Martins is clear: for Chukwueze to flourish again—both for club and country—he needs to be playing regularly.
As speculation around his future grows, all eyes will be on what decision the winger takes at the close of the season.
