Samuel Chukwueze was left on the bench once again as AC Milan edged Genoa 2-1 in their Serie A clash on Monday night, continuing a frustrating spell on the sidelines for the Nigerian international.
The 25-year-old has now missed out on action in Milan’s last three matches, with his last appearance coming on April 20 in a defeat to Atalanta.
That game marked his 23rd appearance in the Italian top flight this season, in which he has managed just three goals.
Expectations were high when Chukwueze arrived at the San Siro from Villarreal in the summer of 2023.
Milan saw him as a potential game-changer, a direct, pacey winger who could inject fresh energy into their attack. However, things haven’t gone according to plan.
A combination of injuries, tactical inconsistencies, and limited opportunities have hampered Chukwueze’s progress. Despite occasional flashes of brilliance, the former La Liga star has struggled to cement a regular place.
Monday’s victory leaves Milan sitting in ninth place on 57 points, a far cry from their usual European ambitions.
With Champions League qualification now out of reach, the club is preparing for a significant summer rebuild and Chukwueze appears to be one of the casualties.
According to reports from Milan News, the club considers Chukwueze’s two-year spell to be underwhelming and is preparing to offload him as part of a broader financial reset.
The outlet described him as a “bitter disappointment,” suggesting Milan are eager to recoup some of the €20 million they spent on him.
For Chukwueze, who remains a key figure for the Nigerian national team, the prospect of a fresh start may be welcome.
Sources close to the player indicate he is hoping for a move where he can enjoy more consistent minutes and return to the form that once made him one of the most exciting young wingers in Europe.
As the summer transfer window approaches, both player and club seem ready to go their separate ways, a move that could revive Chukwueze’s career and help Milan reset for the 2025/26 season.
