“He’s a faster Robben” – Ex-Milan stars, expert back Samuel Chukwueze to excel in Serie A

The Nigeria international only arrived in Italy from Spain’s Villarreal a few weeks ago, but many are expecting him to be an instant hit in Serie A

Three legendary AC Milan figures, Giovanni Galli, Filippo Galli, and Luca Antonini, have voiced their optimism for Samuel Chukwueze’s anticipated success in the upcoming Italian Serie A season, Soccernet.ng reports.

Chukwueze, acquired by AC Milan for €28 million (plus bonuses) from Villarreal in July, has garnered significant support from these Milan luminaries.

Positioned opposite Rafa Leao on Milan’s left flank, Chukwueze is expected to bring a dynamic edge that could pose a daunting challenge for any opponent.

Former AC Milan goalkeeper Giovanni Galli expressed his belief that Chukwueze might emerge as Milan’s standout performer in the 2023/24 season.

Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport (via Milan News), Galli noted, “Players with a decent track record have arrived, but they have everything to prove.

“Chukwueze could be the standout player of the league. He’s a faster (Arjen) Robben: he has technique, shooting, and dribbling. Along with Atalanta and Fiorentina, Milan is the team that has moved the best.

“For the title race, I see those who have made fewer changes doing better, so if Napoli keeps Osimhen… Behind Napoli, I place Milan.”

Former AC Milan midfielder Filippo Galli shared his insight with Gazzetta dello Sport, envisioning a formidable partnership between Chukwueze and Leao.

Galli said, “I find that the club has moved well on the market, going to reinforce the squad where there was more urgency to intervene.

“I like the signings, above all Pulisic and Reijnders; waiting to see the best Chukwueze: he and Leao on the wings can be devastating.”

Luca Antonini, a former Rossoneri full-back, commended Chukwueze’s pace in his conversation with Gazzetta dello Sport. 

Antonini noted, “Milan are a well-made team, and they will have their say in the fight for the Scudetto. I tell the fans not to be frightened by the so-so results of the friendlies: they don’t count.

“Perhaps the Rossoneri will struggle a bit at first, but then they’ll put on a show: with people like Reijnders, who has an incredible personality, and Chukwueze, who is as quick as few others, and he will be fun to watch. And if a centre-back arrives defensive…”

Fabio Ravezzani, the director of TeleLombardia, added his perspective on Milan’s situation during a chat as per Milan News.

Ravezzani emphasised that Chukwueze’s presence could help make Milan stronger on the right side.

He said, “Let’s be honest: Milan on the right side has issues with the trio of Calabria-Florenzi-Kalulu. If Chukwueze, as I hope, starts to excel on the right and really break through, then everything changes for Milan.

“Milan would be extremely strong on the right and extremely strong on the left. As a forward, at that point, Okafor could be enough for you.”

After clinching the Scudetto title in 2022, Milan secured a fourth-place finish in Serie A last season.