Chukwueze Inspires Milan Comeback With Assist In Pre-Season Draw

Chukwueze, who began the match on the substitutes’ bench, was introduced at the start of the second half with Milan trailing 2-0 after Celtic struck twice in the opening period. The Super Eagles international immediately injected urgency into the Rossoneri attack, and his influence proved decisive as Milan clawed their way level.

The equaliser came directly from Chukwueze’s creativity. In a moment of technical quality, he curled a precise cross with the outside of his left foot toward the far post, where it was met with a firm headed finish to make it 2-2. That assist capped a lively cameo in which he consistently troubled the Celtic defence, driving forward with intent and linking play effectively in the final third.

Italian football outlet Sempre Milan awarded Chukwueze a 7.5 rating for his display—one of only two Milan players to receive that mark. In their post-match analysis, the publication noted: “As you would expect, he made things happen and was a constant danger to the Celtic defence. The cross for Camarda’s second goal was absolutely lovely, and he was involved in other chances after that. A game-changer of sorts.”

Beyond his on-field impact, the 27-year-old’s immediate future at San Siro was clarified by Amorim, who took over as head coach ahead of the new season. Speaking after the match, the Portuguese manager firmly dismissed speculation linking Chukwueze with a departure, following a loan spell at Fulham during the 2025/26 campaign where he registered three goals and four assists in 26 appearances across all competitions.

Fulham opted not to exercise their purchase option after Milan held firm on a €24 million valuation, and recent reports had suggested interest from Turkish clubs. However, Amorim made it clear that Chukwueze features prominently in his tactical planning.

“Chukwu is staying with us,” Amorim stated, as quoted by eventi.news. “We need players who can play one-on-one, literally. Saelemaekers can play on the left or right. Cissé and Comotto will start preseason with us, but after that I really have no idea what will happen. But it doesn’t matter where the players come from: if they play well, if they absorb the coaching, and if they have the right qualities to fill that gap, then we’ll find a place within the team.

“Before we look outside, let’s take a good look inside. Then at the end of preseason we’ll see what’s happened, paying close attention to the budget. I think Chukwueze has truly great qualities to be in our team, and he gives us options to play in other systems.”

Chukwueze, who joined Milan from Villarreal in 2023, now appears set to remain a key rotational asset as Amorim shapes his squad ahead of the 2026/27 season, with his ability to break down defences in one-on-one situations already proving valuable in the club’s early preparations.