AC Milan coach Amorim backs Chukwueze to excel as wing-back
AC Milan head coach Ruben Amorim has expressed confidence that Nigerian winger Samuel Chukwueze can succeed in a wing-back role within his 3-4-2-1 system, saying the player's mentality and character are more important than his natural attacking position. Amorim made the remarks at a press conference on Saturday, noting that Chukwueze returned from a productive loan spell at Fulham and has been deployed as a wing-back during pre-season, though some Milan supporters question whether he has the defensive qualities for the spot.
Amorim defended the decision, arguing that defending is about spirit and character, which Chukwueze possesses, and pointed to an improved defensive performance against Manchester United in a recent friendly. He said the Nigerian can help Milan retain possession from a wider position and is expected to get another chance to impress in the role on Sunday evening, while still contributing offensively.
For Nigerian fans following Chukwueze's European career, the shift raises questions about adaptability and longevity: will a wing-back role reduce his attacking output, or could it extend his usefulness at a top club by adding defensive responsibility? Watching how he balances both duties in Sunday's match could offer an early answer.