Milan commenced pre-season training under new head coach Ruben Amorim with an immediate tactical surprise, stationing Nigeria international Samuel Chukwueze in a deep-lying wide midfield position rather than his accustomed attacking role.
The Rossoneri gathered at their Milanello base for the first session of the summer, with proprietor Gerry Cardinale attending and supporters present to observe proceedings. Amorim, who assumed control of the Serie A club this summer, fielded his players in the anticipated 3-4-2-1 formation, though Chukwueze’s specific deployment offered an early indication of the Portuguese’s flexible approach.
Midfield Conversion
Chukwueze operated on the right flank of the four-man midfield unit, a notably deeper starting position than his usual station as an attacking winger. The adjustment suggests Amorim intends to utilise the 26-year-old’s pace and ball-carrying ability from midfield areas rather than the final third.
The tactical decision recalls Amorim’s brief tenure at Manchester United, where he employed Ivorian winger Amad Diallo in a similar wide midfield capacity within the same system.
Return from England
The position switch comes as Chukwueze reintegrates with the squad following a loan spell at Fulham. During his temporary stay in the Premier League, he contributed three goals and four assists across 25 appearances before returning to San Siro.
The role demands considerable defensive diligence from wide areas, requiring Chukwueze to track opposition wing-backs while providing attacking width—responsibilities distinct from the forward-focused duties he has typically performed throughout his career.
The training session also saw young prospect Andrej Kostic register Milan’s first pre-season goal during an intra-squad fixture. Amorim’s willingness to adapt Chukwueze’s role highlights the structural changes underway at Milan, with the coach already demonstrating how he intends to configure his personnel within the three-man defensive setup ahead of the forthcoming campaign.