Samuel Chukwueze

Samuel Chimerenka Chukwueze (born May 22, 1999) is a Nigerian professional footballer who primarily plays as a right winger. He is widely recognized for his pace, dribbling ability, and left-footed strikes. Chukwueze is considered one of Nigeria's brightest young football talents and has established himself both in European club football and on the international stage with the Nigerian national team, the Super Eagles.Early Life and Education Chukwueze was born in Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria, into a Christian family of Igbo descent. He developed an interest in football at a very young age and was inspired by Nigerian football legends and international stars. His formal education took place in Nigeria, but his passion for football quickly led him toward professional development.Career Progression Chukwueze began his football journey at the renowned Diamond Football Academy in Umuahia, Nigeria. His talent quickly caught the eye of international scouts, particularly after his impressive performances at the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup. In 2017, he signed with the Spanish club Villarreal CF, joining their youth setup. After initially playing for the club's reserve team, Villarreal B, he made his first-team debut in September 2018. Chukwueze quickly integrated into the senior squad, becoming a regular starter and scoring his first goal for the club in November 2018. He spent six successful seasons with Villarreal, where he developed into a formidable winger known for his unpredictable attacking prowess. In July 2023, Chukwueze completed a high-profile transfer to the Italian Serie A club AC Milan, marking a significant step in his career progression to one of Europe's top leagues.Major Achievements and Notable Works Chukwueze’s most significant club achievement came during his time at Villarreal when the club won the UEFA Europa League in the 2020–21 season, defeating Manchester United in the final. On the international level, Chukwueze gained early global recognition as a key player for the Nigerian team that won the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Chile. He won the Bronze Boot at the tournament and was widely celebrated for his contributions. He made his senior debut for the Super Eagles in 2018 and has since been a vital member of the squad, participating in major tournaments, including the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where he helped Nigeria secure third place in 2019. His individual accolades include the 2018 Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) Young Player of the Year award, recognizing his breakout season.Current Status As of 2024, Samuel Chukwueze is playing for AC Milan in Italy's Serie A and continues to represent the Nigerian national team. He is actively competing at the highest level of European club football and remains a focal point of Nigeria's attacking strategy in international competitions. His career is characterized by continuous growth and the expectation of achieving further success in major European and international championships.