Milan manager Stefano Pioli didn’t mince words when addressing the struggling winger Samuel Chukwueze, urging him to draw inspiration from the prolific performances of USMNT star Christian Pulisic.
During a press conference preceding their Serie A encounter with Atalanta, Pioli made a direct comparison between the two players, emphasizing Pulisic’s goal-scoring ability, assists, and diligent work ethic.
Pioli expressed his expectation for Chukwueze to mirror these attributes, stating, “Pulisic and Chukwueze have the same characteristics. Pulisic scores goals, assists, and works. Chukwueze has to score goals, he has to get assists, and has to work.”
Chukwueze, who has started only 10 games for the Rossoneri in 2024, has struggled to find the net, managing just two goals and one assist during this period.
Despite having scored 12 goals in La Liga for Villareal the previous season, Milan’s substantial investment of $22 million in the Nigerian international over the summer is yet to yield significant returns.
In contrast, Pulisic, who recently contributed a goal and an assist in Milan’s 4-2 loss to Monza, stands out as a consistent performer even in the face of disappointing team results.
As Milan prepares for their Serie A clash against Atalanta, sitting in third place, a victory coupled with a potential loss for second-placed Juventus against Frosinone could see them leapfrogging into the second position in the standings.