Samuel Chukwueze will remain with AC Milan for the 2026/27 season, manager Ruben Amorim has confirmed. The Nigerian winger, 27, returns to the club after a loan spell at Fulham during the 2025/26 campaign, where he recorded three goals and four assists in 26 appearances across all competitions. Fulham did not exercise an option to buy, having declined to meet AC Milan's €24 million valuation.
Amorim dismissed speculation linking Chukwueze with a move to Turkish clubs, stating clearly that the player is part of his plans for the upcoming season at San Siro. He emphasized the importance of one-on-one attacking play, identifying Chukwueze as a key fit for that role. "Chukwu is staying with us. We need players who can play one-on-one, literally," Amorim said.
The manager also noted that Saelemaekers offers flexibility by playing on either flank, while Cissé and Comotto will begin preseason with the squad. However, he stressed that internal evaluations would guide final team composition, particularly in light of budget constraints. "Before we look outside, let's take a good look inside," Amorim added. "I think Chukwueze has truly great qualities to be in our team, and he gives us options to play in other systems."
Chukwueze joined AC Milan from Villarreal in 2023 and has since been deployed primarily as a right winger. His ability to dribble and create chances has earned recognition, though consistency has been a challenge. The decision to retain him signals AC Milan's intent to build depth from within rather than pursue costly transfers.
Amorim is banking on a player Fulham deemed not worth €24 million to solve AC Milan's attacking issues. His emphasis on internal solutions clashes with the reality that Chukwueze has not yet delivered consistent performances at the top level. The winger's future hinges on adapting to systems rather than proven output, a gamble for a club under financial scrutiny. If he fails, the decision to reject Fulham's offer may look less like conviction and more like miscalculation.
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