Super Eagles star’s future in doubt amid performance issues and international interest

• Nigerian forward Chukwueze has not started a Serie A game since August
• Coach Fonseca says Chukwueze’s issue is not about his “quality but confidence”
• Atletico Madrid, West Ham, and Aston Villa are reportedly interested in signing the winger

Nigerian forward Samuel Chukwueze’s move to AC Milan seemed full of promise, but the Nigerian international has yet to replicate his stunning form from Villarreal in Italy. 

Despite playing a key role at Villarreal, where he delivered 37 goals and 31 assists across 207 games, his transition to Serie A has been anything but smooth. 

Chukwueze now faces a dilemma, with his future at Milan hanging in the balance as clubs like Atletico Madrid, West Ham, and Aston Villa express interest in rescuing his career.

The 25-year-old winger joined AC Milan in the summer of 2023 for €20 million, signing a contract until June 2028. However, in 39 appearances for the Rossoneri, Chukwueze has only managed three goals and three assists. 

His struggles have been compounded by spending much of his time on the bench, starting only two of Milan’s first three games this season before losing his spot to the in-form Christian Pulisic.

Chukwueze had shown glimpses of his potential during the last pre-season under coach Paulo Fonseca, but as soon as the Serie A season kicked off, his form dwindled again just like last season. Fonseca recently shed light on Chukwueze's difficulties in a pre-match conference, saying, 

“It’s not a problem of quality but of confidence. He needs to gain confidence and play in this context; in Serie A, he has no space, he has to make movements at the right time.” 

Despite Fonseca’s belief in Chukwueze’s talent, the Nigerian winger has yet to find his footing.

However, sources have reported that Chukwueze “could be on his way out of Milan,” with La Liga and Premier League clubs keen to offer him a fresh start. Atletico Madrid, in particular, seems interested in bringing him back to Spain. Premier League sides West Ham United and Aston Villa are also monitoring the situation.

Although Milan would prefer to keep Chukwueze, the club will not stand in his way if an offer meets their valuation. Chukwueze’s market value remains around €20 million, the same amount Milan spent to acquire him. However, a loan move may be more likely than a permanent transfer in January.

Chukwueze’s future remains uncertain, but a move away from Milan could reignite his career. A loan deal might give him the playing time he needs to rebuild his confidence and remind the football world of his talent.

Popular Chelsea defender reportedly eyeing Super Eagles switch

Previously, TheRadar reported that as whispers grow louder about Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo potentially switching his international allegiance from England to Nigeria, interim Super Eagles coach Austin Eguavoen has spoken out. 

The 27-year-old defender, born in England to Nigerian parents, has represented England at youth levels but is yet to break into Gareth Southgate’s senior squad. With his omission from the Euros squad, Adarabioyo may be reconsidering his options, making the switch to Nigeria seem increasingly likely.