AC Milan coach explains why 'quality player' Chukwueze started over Pulisic in 2-1 win at Fiorentina 

Following AC Milan's recent encounter with Fiorentina, head coach Stefano Pioli has shed light on his decision to start Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze ahead of Christian Pulisic.

The match, which ended 2-1 in favour of the Rossoneri, saw Pioli's tactical choices come under scrutiny, with Theo Hernandez also sidelined.

In a pre-match interview with Sky Sport, via Milan News, Pioli acknowledged the emotional significance of the fixture whilst also emphasizing that his focus remained on ensuring his team stayed concentrated after the opening ceremonies.

The biggest talking point for fans was the absence of Theo Hernandez and Pulisic starting on the bench.

Pioli addressed these concerns directly after which he then elaborated on Pulisic's absence on the pitch, after the winger played a key role for the USMNT as the clinched the CONCACAF Gold Cup.

Shifting the focus to Chukwueze, the 58-year-old offered a positive assessment of the new arrival's adaptation.

"I spoke to Chistian yesterday, he hadn't fully recovered yet and he told me that he preferred to play a part of the match" Pioli highlighted.

"Chukwueze was working well. He had a bit of difficulty fitting in initially, but he's fine, he's a quality player."

Chukwueze who was overlooked by Super Eagles' Interim manager Finidi George for the March International window, has endured a very difficult start to life at the San Siro, netting just one goal and an assist in eighteen league appearances so far this term.

Ejim Kaycee

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