Super Eagles star, Samuel Chukwueze produced a dazzling display as AC Milan stunned Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City 3-2 in a pre-season friendly on Saturday at the Yankee Stadium in New York City.
The winger was the standout performer for the Serie A side, providing two assists in a commanding performance.
Chukwueze’s creativity and flair were on full display as he tormented the City defence. His first assist set up Lorenzo Colombo for the equaliser, while his second cross was expertly finished by the same player to put Milan ahead.
While Erling Haaland opened the scoring for City, John McAtee’s second-half strike levelled the scores before Marco Nasti secured the win for Milan.
The victory marks a positive step for AC Milan in their pre-season preparations, following a 1-1 draw with Rapid Vienna last week. The Rossoneri will face Real Madrid and Barcelona in their upcoming friendlies, offering Chukwueze further opportunities to impress.
Chukwueze thriving under new boss
After the match, Chukwueze expressed his enthusiasm for working under new manager Paulo Fonseca. “A year ago I didn't start the pre-season, I arrived late, now I've been here from the beginning. I feel good, I like the new coach, he immediately gave me an opportunity,” he told La Gazzetta dello Sport. “It's important when someone trusts you. The fans will see a new Samu this year.”
The Nigerian winger’s impressive performance against City will have boosted his confidence ahead of the new season.
Chukwueze has endured a rocky time since swapping Villarreal for the Rossoneri last year. The €28 million signing did not enjoy an extended run in the team, having often played second fiddle to Rafael Leao, Christian Pulusic, and Yunus Musah.
In the Serie A last season under the guidance of Stefano Pioli, Chukwueze started as many games as he had been among the substitutes. Of the 24 league matches he played, only 12 were starts.
