Samuel Chukwueze Admits His Level Has Dropped This Season

The Super Eagles star had an impressive debut campaign last season, but he has not been able to reach the same heights this season. 

Samuel Chukwueze knows his performances have dropped this season, but says he is still learning and growing in the game.

The 20-year-old had an excellent year with Villarreal last season which was coincidentally his debut campaign for the Yellow Submarines first team.

Chukwueze made 38 appearances for Villarreal last season, scoring eight goals and providing assists. His exploits against the two Spanish heavyweights, Barcelona and Real Madrid, was the pick of his performances in the previous campaign.

He was rewarded for his brilliant performances with an international call-up and has since featured regularly for the Super Eagles.

He was part of Nigeria’s squad that finished third at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt. Chukwueze was also recognised by France Football, organisers of the Ballon d’Or.

The Nigeria international was nominated for the Kopa Trophy award, finishing in ninth place. However, while he had an excellent debut season last year, Chukwueze has been unable to replicate such form this season.

Although he has featured 30 times in all competitions for Javier Calleja’s side this season, Chukwueze has managed just three goals and one assist.

Speaking in an Instagram Live interview with the Super Eagles account, The former U-20 star admits the drop in his form but says it’s normal as he is still learning.

“The second season, things have been a little different,” Chukwueze said.  I am a young player still growing, and players on the pitch are chosen by the coach, sometimes one does not perform optimally.

“I am still growing and learning,” he added.