Chukwueze shines vs Man United: 3 things that stood out in AC Milan friendly

Super Eagles forward Samuel Chukwueze inspired AC Milan to an impressive 4-2 win over Manchester United in a preseason friendly earlier today, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 27-year-old, whose future has been uncertain throughout the summer, produced one of his best performances in a Milan shirt as the Italian giants secured their first preseason victory ahead of the new campaign.

It was also a first win for head coach Ruben Amorim since replacing Massimiliano Allegri earlier in the summer, with the Portuguese coach getting one over his former employers, who dismissed him earlier this year.

Chukwueze played a major role in the victory, contributing a goal and two assists in an outstanding individual display. 

He brought Milan level in the first half after racing onto a pass from summer signing Goncalo Ramos, following some comical defending from Manchester United, to cancel out Harry Maguire’s effort earlier in the game.

Bruno Fernandes then missed a penalty as the first half ended 1-1, before Manchester United regained the lead after the break through Patrick Dorgu.

Chukwueze was involved again in the Rossoneri’s equalizer as his effort appeared to be heading wide before Alhadjo Cisse reacted quickest to tuck the ball home and restore parity.

The Super Eagles star then added another goal contribution by providing another assist for Ramos, delivering a quality cross for the Portuguese forward to head home and put Milan ahead.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek completed the scoring as Milan secured an impressive 4-2 victory and ended their preseason preparations on a high.

Man United 2-4 AC Milan: 3 things that stood out as Chukwueze runs riot

1. Chukwueze looked confident in attack

Chukwueze's willingness to get involved in attack was one of the biggest positives from his performance and played an important role in Milan's victory.

Much of the attention surrounding the Nigerian this summer has centered on his future after he returned from a loan spell at Fulham, who decided against taking up their option to sign him permanently.

However, his performance against Manchester United showed once again that he still has the quality to make a big impact at Milan.

🇳🇬⚽ Samuel Chukwueze scores!

He gets the equaliser for Milan against Manchester to bring them level. pic.twitter.com/1jKCd2fgPu

— Soar Africa! (@SSE_NGA) August 15, 2026

The 27-year-old constantly looked to push forward and appeared to have the better of Luke Shaw on several occasions. He was also alert to take advantage of United's defensive mistake for Milan's opening goal.

His best moment, however, came when he produced a composed cross for Ramos to head home and put Milan in front. The performance was a timely reminder of Chukwueze's attacking quality and could give Amorim plenty to think about ahead of the new season.

2. Chukwueze continues to impress in the wing-back role

Another interesting aspect of Chukwueze's performance was his role as a wing-back. The 27-year-old is traditionally a winger, but he has been featuring in the role since Amorim's arrival, with the Portuguese coach favouring a 3-4-2-1 system.

There were initially questions over whether Chukwueze could adapt to the demands of the position, especially as it requires more defensive responsibility alongside his attacking duties.

Against United, he provided another encouraging display and showed that he can handle the role.

The Nigerian forward used his pace to drive forward and remained heavily involved in Milan's attacking play. He created three chances, more than any other player in the game, while also recording six touches in the opposition box.

His defensive contribution was also noticeable, with five recoveries and only one occasion where he was dribbled past.

3. A potential hint that Chukwueze will stay at Milan

Chukwueze's future has been one of the talking points surrounding Milan this summer.

The Nigerian winger has attracted interest from several clubs, with Trabzonspor among those keen on his services earlier in the transfer window, while a return to La Liga has also been mentioned as a possibility.

However, Saturday's performance may have given a strong indication of how Amorim currently regards him.

Chukwueze was the only outfield player to complete the full 90 minutes against Manchester United, While several of his teammates were substituted, Amorim kept the Nigerian star on the pitch until the final whistle, allowing him to showcase his stamina and physicality throughout the contest.

His performance was rewarded with the highest rating among the players on the pitch, earning a 9.1 rating according to FotMob.

More importantly, he finished the game with a goal and two assists, playing a direct role in three of Milan's four goals and strengthening his case to remain at San Siro.

With Milan set to visit Torino in their 2026-27 Serie A opener next Sunday, Chukwueze has given Amorim another reason to consider him among the first names in his starting lineup.