AC Milan boss explains why matchwinner Chukwueze started over Portugal ace Leao in Udinese victory

AC Milan manager Paulo Fonseca has shed light on his decision to start Samuel Chukwueze over Portuguese star Rafael Leao in the club’s 1-0 victory against Udinese on Saturday, Soccernet.ng reports.

Speaking to reporters, Fonseca emphasised that his choice was purely tactical and not due to any locker room issues, as some had speculated.

“Today I decided to let Okafor and Chukwueze play, maybe tomorrow it will be Leao’s turn,” Fonseca explained.

“Let’s not create a case, because it doesn’t exist. Leao was respectful, satisfied in the locker room, and this is the most important thing for me.”

Fonseca revealed that Leao, one of Milan’s most influential players, had been nursing a slight injury and had not fully participated in training ahead of the match.

“Leao didn’t train on Thursday, he had a little discomfort in his flexor; he only trained yesterday. And so I decided to let Okafor and Chukwueze play, who played very very well.”

Chukwueze, who had returned early from international duty with Nigeria due to a knock, recovered in time to start his third Serie A match of the season.

Chukwueze goal pic.twitter.com/bn9xpHHmYl

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He rewarded Fonseca’s faith with the game’s only goal, securing Milan’s hard-fought win despite being reduced to ten men after Tijjani Reijners was sent off. The Nigerian winger’s performance earned him the Man of the Match award.

Since joining AC Milan, Chukwueze has made 42 appearances, scoring four goals and providing three assists across all competitions.