Chukwueze Shines: AC Milan's Star Dominates Torino Match with Stellar Performance

AC Milan commenced their 2026/27 Serie A campaign with a 2-1 victory over Torino, marked by a superb performance from Super Eagles forward Samuel Chukwueze. This season represents the Rossoneri's pursuit of their first league title since 2021/22 and their inaugural season under the guidance of former Manchester United coach, Ruben Amorim. The match saw Alphadjo Cisse open the scoring in the second half, swiftly followed by Adrien Rabiot's goal just three minutes later. Although Che Adams pulled one back for Torino late in the game, Milan successfully held on to secure all three points.

The clash began with AC Milan making a fast start, as Cisse had an early chance that went wide. Chukwueze, deployed in his new right wing-back role under Amorim, also tested Torino goalkeeper Diego Mascardi with an effort after a mazy run. The first half concluded goalless, prompting Amorim to introduce Luka Modric and Adrien Rabiot as Milan sought a breakthrough. The deadlock was finally broken in the 64th minute when Rabiot assisted Cisse, who lashed the ball home. Just three minutes later, Milan doubled their lead, with Chukwueze delivering a superb cross into the box that Rabiot headed in.

Samuel Chukwueze's individual display was particularly notable. Returning to AC Milan after a loan spell at Fulham in the Premier League, the 27-year-old continued to impress in his new right wing-back position, a role he had already showcased during Milan’s 4-2 pre-season friendly win against Manchester United. Against Torino, he played the full 90 minutes, created the most chances in the game with four, and registered one assist. He also had the joint-most touches in the opposition box and won three of his five ground duels, culminating in an impressive outing that earned him an 8.3 rating from FotMob and the Man of the Match award.

Coach Ruben Amorim’s decision to deploy Chukwueze as a wing-back has already shown encouraging early signs, demonstrating considerable faith in the Nigerian. Chukwueze, who contributed defensively in a role demanding more than his traditional responsibilities as a winger, expressed his gratitude for this trust. He stated in an interview with Gazzetta IT, “He simply showed faith in me, and I think I need to make the most of it. I can’t waste this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity – to return to Milan after the loan spell.”

The tactical switch presents obvious challenges for Chukwueze, who is naturally more comfortable attacking than defending. However, his performance against Torino indicated a growing embrace of the new position's demands. He had previously acknowledged Amorim's focus on improvement, noting, “Every time I make a mistake, he tells me: ‘Oh, Chukwueze, this is what you need to do.’ So, I think I’ll improve before the start of the season.” Following the victory, Chukwueze reiterated his commitment to the role, telling DAZN, “I’m ready, I can’t wait, and I’ll do it all season. I know it’s a difficult task, but I believe in myself. I know I can do it; I can do anything.” His Man of the Match performance offers early validation for Amorim's tactical gamble, as Chukwueze, who has previously struggled with consistency, appears keen to prove his doubters wrong this season. He will look to maintain this impressive form when AC Milan faces Venezia in their next clash.