'Wasn't a punishment': AC Milan coach clarifies decision to bring on Chukwueze for Rafael Leao

AC Milan manager Paulo Fonseca provided clarity on his tactical decision to substitute Rafael Leao for Samuel Chukwueze during his team's 3-1 victory over Club Brugge in the UEFA Champions League.

The match saw Milan take the lead through Christian Pulisic in the 34th minute, but Club Brugge equalized early in the second half despite being reduced to ten men after Raphael Onyedika's red card.

With the Rossoneri struggling to maintain control of the game, Fonseca decided to introduce Chukwueze in the 60th minute, a move that proved pivotal.

Alongside Noah Okafor, Chukwueze revitalized Milan's attack, leading to a quick succession of goals.

Tijjani Reijnders capitalized on an assist from Okafor to put Milan ahead again just a minute after the substitution, before Chukwueze himself assisted Reijnders for the third goal in the 71st minute.

In a post-match press conference, Fonseca emphasized that Leao's substitution was not due to any issues between them.

"There is no specific problem with him. The substitution wasn't a punishment; we needed Okafor and Chukwueze. It should be seen as normal," he was quoted as saying by Milan Reports.

The Portuguese football tactician urged Leao to embrace the team-oriented nature of the decision. 

"Rafa should see it as normal and work to help the team like all the players."

Fonseca further elaborated on the need for increased intensity in the game, noting that the team's ball circulation had been too slow before the introduction of Okafor and Chukwueze.

"I think we played without intensity, the ball circulation was too slow, and we didn't understand how to play against a team that defends deep. 

"When Okafor and Chukwueze came on, the game changed; they brought fresh energy, and the team gained intensity. After the second goal, we did some really good things, but before that, we played without intensity," he added.

When asked about whether Chukwueze might start over Leao in the upcoming match against Bologna, Fonseca remained non-committal.

"Maybe. I'll think about it now. I must say I haven't studied Bologna yet. I'll study them and decide which players will be the best to face them," he remarked.

Since his return from international duty, Chukwueze's performance has been impressive, especially after a challenging start to the season.

He has scored or assisted in his last two matches, including a decisive goal against Udinese.

As he seeks to regain his form, the Nigerian winger aims to continue contributing to Milan's success in the coming games.

Adeyemi Adewale

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