AC Milan is evolving under the guidance of their new coach, Paulo Fonseca. While the team has traditionally faced challenges in defense, they are looking to bolster their attacking options as well. The familiar 4-2-3-1 formation remains in place, but Fonseca is considering a more forward-focused approach, inspired by their successful pre-season matches against top clubs like Real Madrid and Manchester City.
One standout player so far has been Samuel Chukwueze, who has been the top performer in the team’s initial outings. In the 2023-24 season, Fonseca has discovered a solid setup featuring Christian Pulisic on the right, Rafael Leao on the left, and Ruben Loftus-Cheek playing just behind striker Olivier Giroud. Pulisic, a former Chelsea player, enjoyed the best season of his career last year and has primarily played on the right wing.
However, Pulisic’s versatility allows him to fill various attacking roles, including a more central position behind the striker. Fonseca has suggested that this could happen, especially as Loftus-Cheek has cemented his status as a vital player due to his leadership and strength. Consequently, Pulisic might shift back and operate alongside either Daehan Reijnders or Malo Gusto in a deeper role if a deal with AS Monaco is finalized.
Chukwueze is expected to take on the right flank, where he has already shown glimpses of his potential, especially in impressive performances against Manchester City—where he provided two assists—and Real Madrid, where he scored a decisive goal. Although 2023-24 was challenging for him, the Nigerian winger is eager to start afresh, seizing the opportunity presented by some teammates returning late from international duty.
The club did invest significantly to bring Chukwueze from Villarreal, paying €20 million plus €8 million in bonuses, which has added pressure on him. His immediate past was also complicated by injuries and the impacts of participating in the Africa Cup of Nations. But now, he feels ready to thrive, and Leao has given his backing, stating that “Samuel has more confidence, a desire to receive the ball, and to make a difference. He can have a great season.”
Milan’s attacking setup with Pulisic in the playmaking role and Loftus-Cheek as a midfielder could provide greater unpredictability and flair, complemented by the attacking runs of full-backs like Emerson Royal and Theo Hernandez. However, Fonseca is also keen to keep Alex Saelemaekers, who is performing admirably and could serve as a strong alternative to Chukwueze or Leao, maintaining the flexibility of the squad with Pulisic as the central attacking playmaker.