Buying Chukwueze was a waste for AC Milan – Paolo Maldini
In a surprising turn of events, former AC Milan technical director Paolo Maldini recently expressed his dissatisfaction with the €30 million investment made in acquiring Samuel Chukwueze. Maldini, a legend at AC Milan, labeled the hefty spending on the Nigerian winger as a waste of funds, sparking discussions about Chukwueze’s performance and value to the Rossoneri.
Chukwueze’s Move to AC Milan Record-Breaking Transfer
Samuel Chukwueze made headlines in the summer as he secured a five-year deal with AC Milan, transitioning from Villarreal. This move marked him as AC Milan’s most expensive signing, with a transfer fee of €30 million. Expectations were high as the Nigerian international joined the prestigious Italian club, aiming to make a significant impact.
Maldini’s Discontent
Reflection on Past Decisions
Paolo Maldini, reflecting on his tenure as AC Milan’s technical director, shared his sentiments about the recent transfer decisions. In an interview with Italian daily La Repubblica, Maldini expressed discontent over the performance of Samuel Chukwueze, stating that the 24-year-old has not justified the significant transfer fee.
Comparison with Previous Signings
Maldini specifically mentioned that there was no need to sign players like Loftus-Cheek, Pulisic, and Chukwueze. He emphasized that the landscape during the previous four transfer windows differed significantly from the recent one. During his tenure, Maldini brought in key players like Theo Hernandez, Rafael Leao, Mike Maignan, and Fikayo Tomori. Notably, he and Frederic Massara received the Sporting Director of the Year award at the 2022 Globe Soccer Awards.
Maldini’s Approval Process
Maldini clarified that all the players who arrived during his tenure were approved by him. He asserted that nothing or no one was ever imposed on him, highlighting his commitment to making decisions aligned with the club’s vision. Maldini emphasized that he would have left if any decisions were forced upon him.
Chukwueze’s Performance
On-Field Contribution
While Samuel Chukwueze had an impressive season with Villarreal, scoring 13 goals and providing 11 assists in all competitions, his performance at AC Milan has raised concerns. In 12 games, he has managed only one goal and one assist, leaving fans and critics alike questioning his impact on the pitch.
Expectations and Challenges
The expectations were undoubtedly high for Chukwueze, given his remarkable performances in La Liga. However, the transition to Serie A and AC Milan comes with its set of challenges. Adapting to a new league, team dynamics, and playing style can contribute to a player’s adjustment period.
Looking Ahead
Milan’s Next Fixture
As AC Milan prepares to face Frosinone, Chukwueze is expected to retain his place in the starting lineup. The upcoming fixture provides an opportunity for the Nigerian winger to showcase his abilities and potentially address the criticisms surrounding his performance.
The evaluation of Samuel Chukwueze’s impact at AC Milan by Paolo Maldini adds a layer of scrutiny to the high-profile transfer. As discussions unfold, football enthusiasts await Chukwueze’s response on the field and whether he can prove his worth in the esteemed Rossoneri jersey.
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