AC Milan manager Paulo Fonseca has tipped Samuel Chukwueze to be the difference-maker for the Rossoneri during the 2024/25 season, Soccernet.ng reports.
Fonseca's words should bring a lot of joy to Chukwueze who has been putting in his best to impress the new Milan boss.
The Nigeria international played second fiddle to United States forward Christian Pulisic last season after joining from Villarreal for €20 million.
Even though Pulisic arrived in Milan from Chelsea in the same transfer window, the USMNT star joined earlier than Chukwueze and had enough time to integrate into the team and win the confidence of the manager at the time, Stefano Pioli.
However, the table has turned with Chukwueze spending more time with new manager Fonseca, as Pulisic featured in the Copa America.
The Nigeria international has seized his chance to force himself into the coach's plans after grabbing two assists in the 3-2 win over Premier League champions Manchester City and scoring the winner in the 1-0 victory against UEFA Champions League winners, Real Madrid.
Impressed with Chukwueze's output, Fonseca has revealed he will be counting on the Super Eagles winger in the coming campaign.
“Chukwueze? Last year he didn't play much and when a new coach arrives, you know, everyone wants to show what they can do,” Fonseca said as per TMW.
“I'm really happy for him, he's doing really, really well. I think he'll be important in the team and will make the difference.”
Milan's final preseason friendly in the United States is against Barcelona on August 7.
Chukwueze and co will then depart for Italy where they face Monza in the annual Trofeo Silvio Berlusconi at the San Siro.
Milan's first Serie A game of the season is a home clash with Torino on August 17.
