Nigerian international winger Samuel Chukwueze has opened up about his challenging time at AC Milan, admitting he felt restricted by a lack of opportunities, while praising the Premier League's style as better suited to his game. The 26-year-old, currently on a season-long loan at Fulham from the Serie A giants, shared these thoughts in a recent interview amid preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations.
Chukwueze joined AC Milan from Villarreal in July 2023 for a reported fee of around €20 million plus add-ons, signing a contract until June 2028. During his two seasons at the San Siro, he made 70 appearances across all competitions, scoring eight goals and providing six assists. However, he often found himself behind Christian Pulisic in the pecking order on the right wing and struggled for consistent starting minutes under multiple coaches.
In September 2025, on transfer deadline day, AC Milan loaned Chukwueze to Fulham with an option to buy, reportedly valued at around €25-30 million if exercised. The move reunited him with fellow Nigerians Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey at Craven Cottage, and it has proven transformative. As of late December 2025, Chukwueze has made nine Premier League appearances for Fulham (a mix of starts and substitute roles), contributing two goals and four assists. His direct, pacey style has injected energy into Fulham's attack, with standout performances including a brace in a high-scoring loss to Manchester City.
Speaking to Egyptian outlet On Sport from Nigeria's AFCON training camp, Chukwueze was candid about his Milan experience: “I don’t think I was given the time or the opportunities I needed. But that’s football. I just have to keep working. Maybe one day I’ll return to Serie A, or La Liga, or stay in the Premier League. English football probably suits my style better than Italian tactics.”
These quotes, relayed via Milanista and reported widely, highlight Chukwueze's belief that the more open, high-intensity nature of the Premier League aligns better with his explosive dribbling, speed, and ability to run in behind defenses—traits that shone during his successful Villarreal spell, where he scored 37 goals and provided 31 assists in 207 games, including key contributions to their 2021 Europa League triumph and 2022 Champions League semi-final run.
Despite his frustrations, Chukwueze expressed lingering affection for Milan: “I miss Milan. It’s my second home. My family are still there, so of course I miss the city. They are doing well and I wish them all the best, I’m still a Milan player, after all, because I’m only on loan.” He even backed his parent club in their Serie A title challenge, noting their strong form and potential to finish in the top four or higher.
Chukwueze's revival at Fulham has been credited in part to manager Marco Silva's man-management and tactical approach, which has restored the winger's confidence. Sources indicate he is enjoying life in London and is open to making the move permanent, though AC Milan remains open to negotiations depending on Fulham's activation of the buy option.
The loan move came after a summer where Chukwueze initially trained with Milan, but the club opted to offload him amid squad restructuring. Fulham's acquisition was confirmed officially by both clubs, with the Cottagers expressing delight at securing the Super Eagle.
Chukwueze's international commitments with Nigeria add another layer to his season, as he prepares for the AFCON in Morocco starting late December 2025. His form at club level has made him a key figure for the Super Eagles, where he has over 40 caps and continues to be a vital attacking option.
This reflection underscores a common narrative in modern football: players adapting differently to leagues' varying demands. Serie A's tactical rigidity often contrasts with the Premier League's end-to-end excitement, and Chukwueze's comments echo those of other wingers who have thrived after moving from Italy to England.
As the January transfer window approaches, Chukwueze's performances will be closely watched, potentially influencing whether Fulham triggers the permanent clause or if he returns to Milan with renewed vigor—or explores other options.
