Nigeria winger Samuel Chukwueze has shared a lighthearted glimpse into his family life, revealing his mother's persistent attempts to steer him away from football and towards a career in medicine or pharmacy.
While football has become a more widely accepted career path in recent years, especially considering the influx of money into the sport, this was not always the case. Many Nigerian parents, including Chukwueze's own mother, viewed football as a frivolous pursuit for unserious individuals.
The AC Milan star is just one of many players who have spoken about their parents' initial disapproval of their footballing aspirations.
In an interview with Football Italia, Chukwueze revealed that, even after reaching the pinnacle of European football, his mother has yet to give up on getting him to pursue a different career.
Samuel Chukwueze's alternate career path
“The funny thing is, in Africa, you don't change your mind that easily,” he said. “Even now, she still wants me to study and become a doctor. Maybe even a ‘doctor in football,' as she puts it!.
“I actually wanted to be a lawyer, but her response was a firm ‘no, no, doctor! You need to study pharmacy.'”
Clearly, a playful back-and-forth continues to this day between mother and son.
On the pitch, however, Samuel Chukwueze has silenced any lingering doubts.
The 25-year-old has enjoyed a brilliant pre-season with AC Milan, registering two assists and a goal in just four appearances, and will be hoping to continue his impressive form as Serie A gets underway, with his sights firmly set on helping the Rossoneri reclaim the Scudetto.
While his mother may still harbor dreams of a white coat and stethoscope, Chukwueze is proving himself to be a vital cog for Paulo Fonesca’s Milan.
