AC Milan coach faces backlash over Samuel Chukwueze’s limited starts

Stefano Pioli, the coach of AC Milan, has faced criticism from respected Italian pundit Fabrizio Ponciroli over his handling of Nigerian winger Samuel Chukwueze.

After an impressive 2022-2023 season at Villarreal, Chukwueze was signed by the Rossoneri last summer for a fee that could rise to 28 million euros with bonuses.

However, his integration into the AC Milan squad has been challenging, leading to questions about Pioli’s lineup choices.

Chukwueze has started only four out of the fourteen matches for AC Milan since his return from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. Despite his recent improvements, Pioli has favoured other players, notably American winger Christian Pulisic, who has had 21 goal involvements since joining Milan from Chelsea.

Ponciroli, while speaking to TMW Radio, via Milan News, however, believes that Chukwueze’s performances warrant a spot in the starting lineup, criticizing Pioli’s formation and player selection.

AC Milan coach Stefano Pioli. (Photo by Miguel MEDINA / AFP)

Ponciroli expressed his confusion about Pioli’s reliance on Yunus Musah, a player who has also struggled for consistent form, over Chukwueze. He suggested that Pioli’s judgment may be compromised, implying that the coach has lost control of the situation due to recent results.

AC Milan’s elimination from the Europa League and their loss in the derby to Inter Milan have raised questions about Pioli’s future at the club.

Ponciroli’s comments highlight a broader debate about Pioli’s management style and AC Milan’s recent performances. The club’s struggles on the pitch could lead to more significant changes in the coaching staff if results don’t improve.

The demand for Chukwueze’s inclusion in the starting lineup reflects growing dissatisfaction with Pioli’s decisions and the need for more balanced squad rotations.