AC Milan head coach Ruben Amorim has backed Nigerian winger Samuel Chukwueze and new signing Diego Moreira to compete for a starting position this season, while indicating that Chukwueze could play an important role as a wing-back.
Moreira joined the Italian giants in a reported €50m transfer and is expected to challenge for a starting spot. However, Amorim believes the Portuguese international’s versatility gives Milan the option of deploying him in several positions.
The Milan coach also highlighted Chukwueze’s distinctive qualities, saying the Nigerian possesses attributes that are difficult to replicate within the squad. According to MilanNews, Amorim believes both players could compete for the same position while also featuring together at times.
“Moreira can play as a full-back on either the right or left; perhaps he’ll play more on the right. At a big club, it’s important to have two excellent players in each position. Moreira and Chukwueze have important characteristics that are difficult to find in a single player,” Amorim said.
He added that Milan would need a player capable of providing similar qualities whenever Chukwueze is unavailable.
“If Chukwueze isn’t available, we need a player with the same characteristics so the team doesn’t suffer too much. Saelemaekers wants to get inside the pitch; he has a different game. They’ll play together sometimes, but overall they’ll fight for the position.”
Chukwueze Embraces New Role
Chukwueze has already demonstrated his willingness to adapt to Amorim’s tactical demands.
The Nigerian started Milan’s season opener against Torino as a right wing-back and made an immediate impact by providing an assist.
The performance appeared to give the 27-year-old a confidence boost, with Chukwueze expressing satisfaction with his start to the campaign.
“I’m happy to be back like this, it gives me confidence. I wanted to start the season like this, I’m happy. But now that’s already in the past, let’s focus on the next one. I’m ready, it’s my job. I’ll give it my all.”
With Moreira capable of playing on both flanks, competition for the right-sided role is expected to be intense.
For Chukwueze, the tactical adjustment could provide an important opportunity to establish himself as a regular starter under Amorim while demonstrating that his versatility can make him a valuable part of Milan’s plans this season.
